Following Prime Minister Netanyahu’s directive to seize full control of Gaza, Israeli Defence Forces advancing into parts of Gaza and the al-Zaytoun district came under heavy ambush by Hamas fighters and their explosives last night.
In the course of the ensuing intense clashes, one young Israeli soldier was killed and eleven others sustained serious injuries.
According to field reports, the fate of four additional Israeli troops remains unknown, with some suggesting that they may have been captured by Hamas militants.
Commentators on social media have argued that Mr Netanyahu’s hawkish policies not only fail to secure the release of existing captives but may in fact increase the likelihood of further soldiers falling into the hands of Hamas.
Previously, Abu Ubaida, the chief spokesman for Hamas, had warned that continued pressure on Gaza would have a direct impact on the situation of hostages and captured IDF personnel.
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