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Four IDF soldiers were wounded on Wednesday, one of them severely, after terrorists opened fire on a patrol in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. According to the military, the soldiers were operating as part of routine duties in the enclave when they came under sudden attack.
The troops, from the Golani Brigade, were targeted by terrorists who reportedly fired a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) at their patrol. Security sources told Walla that the incident occurred as the soldiers moved through a densely built-up area.
Officials from the IDF Southern Command described the ambush as a “serious violation of the ceasefire agreement,” noting that such actions jeopardize the fragile calm maintained in recent weeks. Other military sources stressed that the incident “would not pass without a response,” signaling that retaliatory action was inevitable.
According to KAN, the terrorists had emerged from a narrow alley before firing at the soldiers and attaching an explosive device to a nearby vehicle. Israeli forces quickly responded, killing the attackers and securing the area.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement later in the day wishing the severely wounded soldier a full recovery. He emphasized that the IDF would “respond accordingly” to the attack and that Israel would not tolerate breaches of the ceasefire.
Shortly after the ambush, the IDF announced that it had struck targets across southern Gaza “in response to the ceasefire violation.” The strikes were aimed at infrastructure linked to the group responsible for the attack, though specific details were not disclosed.
Ongoing Operations Against Tunnels in Eastern Rafah
Simultaneously, the IDF is continuing a concentrated effort to destroy Hamas tunnels in the eastern Rafah area. The Golani and Nahal brigades, along with the elite Yahalom combat engineering corps, have been deployed to dismantle what remains of the underground network.
“In the past week, more than 40 terrorists were eliminated in the tunnel area,” an IDF spokesman reported. He added that dozens of tunnel shafts and above-ground and underground terrorist infrastructures had been destroyed.
The IDF’s push beyond the “Yellow Line” in Gaza has aimed to prevent militants from reestablishing tunnel routes that could facilitate attacks. Military officials say the operation has significantly degraded Hamas’s ability to maneuver underground.
Rocket Launchers Found in Northern Gaza
In a separate operation earlier in the week, troops from the 2nd Brigade discovered and destroyed five loaded rocket launchers in northern Gaza. The launch systems, designed to fire salvos into Israeli territory, were found hidden inside camouflaged positions.
An IDF spokesperson explained that the launchers posed an immediate threat due to their readiness and firing capability. Forensic teams are examining the systems to determine which faction was responsible for deploying them.
The discovery highlights ongoing efforts to thwart attacks despite the ceasefire, which Israeli officials say is frequently tested by militant groups seeking to rearm.
Security analysts warn that such caches indicate organized attempts to rebuild offensive capabilities.
Rising Tensions Over Ceasefire Stability
Wednesday’s ambush has reignited debate within Israeli defense circles over the sustainability of the ceasefire. Officials say repeated violations undermine progress and heighten the risk of escalation.
For residents in southern Israel, the operations offer reassurance that the military remains vigilant in preventing rocket fire and cross-border attacks. However, the IDF stresses that continued cooperation on the ground is essential to maintain stability.
As investigations continue into the Rafah attack, military commanders affirm they will take all necessary measures to protect troops and prevent further violations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers Israeli forces face inside the Gaza Strip, even during periods of declared calm.