Hummingbird News Desk
NEW DELHI, 1 NOV: In a heartbreaking turn of events, 20-year-old Staff-Sgt. Halel Solomon, an Indian-origin Israeli soldier from Dimona, was among the 12 Israel Defence Forces (IDF) personnel who lost their lives during a fierce gun battle with Hamas militants deep inside the Gaza Strip, according to local media reports and statements from community members and the Mayor of Dimona town.
Dimona, a small southern Israeli town known for its significant Indian Jewish population, is often affectionately referred to as “little India” in Israel. Staff-Sgt. Solomon, a beloved member of this close-knit community, was part of the IDF troops that launched the ground operation in Gaza last week.
The loss of Solomon and his fellow soldiers has deeply impacted the Indian community in Dimona, with community members expressing their condolences. PTI reports quote them describing Solomon as “a young man with pleasant manners and a very bright future ahead.”
The IDF confirmed that 10 soldiers were killed on Tuesday during the intense battle with Hamas militants in Gaza, bringing the total casualties of that day to 12, as the deaths of two other soldiers were confirmed earlier.
The IDF has continued its ground and air assault in Gaza, aiming to eliminate Hamas militants. The military claimed to have struck 1,100 Hamas targets, including underground tunnels and militant outposts, in operations carried out overnight and throughout the day. While dozens of Hamas militants were reportedly killed, Palestinian authorities have not yet confirmed these numbers.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences, stating, “Our soldiers fell in a just war, a war for our home. I promise you, citizens of Israel: we will continue until we fulfill the mission – we will continue until victory.”
The entire nation mourns the loss of these brave soldiers, emphasizing the high cost and sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace and security in the region.
Cover Image for only representational purpose.
Tags: #IDF #Gaza #Israel #Hamas #War
