IDF spokesperson revealed on Monday evening that two reservists, Master Sergeant Ido Aviv (28) from Kiryat Yam, and Master Sergeant Kalkidan Mehar (37) from Petach Tikva, were fatally wounded in a building explosion near the Netzarim Corridor in central Gaza Strip on Sunday.
Both soldiers were members of the 99th Division. Another soldier, who had recently taken over corridor maintenance duties from the regular Nahal Brigade, was also severely injured.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the explosion, assessing whether it resulted from Hamas RPG fire or an accidental detonation of IDF munitions like a tank shell.
Since the onset of the conflict, 608 soldiers have died, with 263 of those casualties occurring after the commencement of ground operations in Gaza. Overall, the war has seen 3,311 soldiers wounded, 514 of whom suffered severe injuries. Presently, 26 soldiers remain in critical condition, 166 in moderate condition, and 53 with minor injuries.