The Israeli military announced on Wednesday that seven soldiers were killed when an explosive device detonated in southern Gaza, underscoring the deadly reality of the ongoing conflict just weeks after renewed tensions with Iran sparked international focus.
# Seven Israeli Soldiers Killed in Gaza Explosion Amid Ongoing Conflict

# Seven Israeli Soldiers Killed in Gaza Explosion Amid Ongoing Conflict
Increased tensions follow the deaths of troops from a combat engineering battalion, marking a significant escalation in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
June 25, 2025 – By Adam Rasgon
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that on Tuesday afternoon, seven soldiers lost their lives due to an explosive device that was strategically planted in Khan Younis. This incident marks the highest casualty rate for the Israeli military in Gaza since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was shattered in March of this year.
Brigadier General Effie Defrin emphasized the painful impact of this tragedy on Israel, stating that the fallen soldiers were part of a combat engineering unit which was actively involved in locating and demolishing tunnels that Hamas militants use. General Defrin acknowledged that the incident was complex and is currently under investigation.
The military wing of Hamas, the Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility through a message on Telegram, asserting that they targeted Israeli soldiers in Khan Younis. However, it remains unclear if their statement specifically pertains to the soldiers killed in this explosion.
The ongoing conflict has its roots in a violent attack on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly assault that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the capture of 250 individuals. In retaliation, Israel's military operations in Gaza have led to a tremendous humanitarian crisis, with the Palestinian Health Authority estimating over 50,000 casualties in the enclave since hostilities intensified.
As the situation continues to develop, the IDF maintains a heightened state of alert and continues its operations in the region.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that on Tuesday afternoon, seven soldiers lost their lives due to an explosive device that was strategically planted in Khan Younis. This incident marks the highest casualty rate for the Israeli military in Gaza since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was shattered in March of this year.
Brigadier General Effie Defrin emphasized the painful impact of this tragedy on Israel, stating that the fallen soldiers were part of a combat engineering unit which was actively involved in locating and demolishing tunnels that Hamas militants use. General Defrin acknowledged that the incident was complex and is currently under investigation.
The military wing of Hamas, the Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility through a message on Telegram, asserting that they targeted Israeli soldiers in Khan Younis. However, it remains unclear if their statement specifically pertains to the soldiers killed in this explosion.
The ongoing conflict has its roots in a violent attack on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly assault that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the capture of 250 individuals. In retaliation, Israel's military operations in Gaza have led to a tremendous humanitarian crisis, with the Palestinian Health Authority estimating over 50,000 casualties in the enclave since hostilities intensified.
As the situation continues to develop, the IDF maintains a heightened state of alert and continues its operations in the region.