Hamas Attack in Southern Gaza Kills Two IDF Soldiers, Violating Ceasefire

The quiet of Sunday morning was shattered when two brave members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) fell in battle in southern Gaza, a stark reminder that the cease‑fire remains dangerously fragile. When the attack struck within Israeli‑controlled territory, the promise of calm was irreversibly shaken.

Major Yaniv Kula, aged 26, and Staff Sergeant Itay Yavetz, aged 21, both from the 932nd Battalion of the Nahal Brigade and hailing from the central city of Modiin, paid the ultimate price. According to IDF investigations, a cell of terror operatives emerged from a tunnel in the Rafah region inside the IDF‑controlled “Yellow Line” zone and fired RPGs at an excavation vehicle, killing the two soldiers. The incident occurred on October 19, 2025 and also left three soldiers wounded.

Israel responded immediately. The Air Force and ground troops struck the area, and the IDF later declared strikes on dozens of Hamas targets in southern Gaza including six kilometres of underground terrorist infrastructure, firing posts and weapons storage sites.
In light of the attack, the Israeli political echelon decided to halt the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip until further notice.

The Israeli leadership characterized the assault as a “blatant violation” of the cease‑fire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the conflict as “The War of Redemption,” framing the current phase as Israel’s resolute resurgence following the brutal October 7 attacks and two years of intense operations in Gaza.

For supporters of Israel, this attack is a painful but stark reminder: the Jewish state remains under threat even amid fleeting pauses in conflict. The fallen soldiers represent courage, duty and the unbreakable bond between the people of Israel and their defenders.

As we reflect on their sacrifice, let us reaffirm our support for Israel’s right to defend its citizens and secure a future where peace is possible and meaningful. Please share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed on how the State of Israel continues to stand strong for its homeland and its people.