What it is about

An Israeli soldier, Sgt. First Class (res.) Malkia Gross, 25, was killed during combat in the southern Gaza Strip. Gross, a member of the 205th “Iron Fist” Reserve Armored Brigade’s 9212th Battalion, hailed from the Susya settlement in the southern West Bank.

Why it matters

The loss of Sgt. Gross, a dedicated educator on his way to becoming a mathematics teacher, highlights the human cost of Israel’s ongoing defensive operations against Hamas, the terrorist organization responsible for widespread violence and kidnappings.

Key Details

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are currently investigating the circumstances of Gross’s death. Eliram Azoulai, head of the Har Hebron Regional Council, described Gross as “beloved by his students” and a person who valued education and community.

This tragic event brings the total number of Israeli military personnel lost since the onset of hostilities to 315, including a police officer who died in a hostage rescue mission. Additionally, a civilian Defense Ministry contractor has also lost his life.

The Broader Context

The current conflict began on October 7, when Hamas terrorists launched a brutal attack on southern Israeli communities, resulting in the murder of around 1,200 civilians and the kidnapping of 251 hostages. As of now, it is estimated that 120 hostages remain in Gaza.

While the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry claims high casualty figures, it’s important to note that Israel maintains that many of those counted as fatalities are terrorists killed in defensive operations. Israel’s endeavors in the conflict continue in defense of its citizens and to neutralize threats posed by terrorist activities.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.