Israeli Military Confirms Senior Commander’s Death Amid Gaza Offensive

The Israeli military has confirmed the death of Colonel Ahsan Daksa, a senior commander of the 401st Brigade, in northern Gaza during intense operations targeting Hamas militants. The incident occurred on Sunday, in the Jabalia area, where Israeli forces have been engaged in a broad assault aimed at weakening Hamas’s foothold in the region.

Fatal Incident in Jabalia

According to Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Colonel Daksa, aged 41, was killed when an explosive device struck him after he stepped outside his tank to assess the area. Two other officers, including a battalion commander, were also injured but sustained only minor injuries in the blast.

Hagari detailed the moment, stating, “They stepped outside to observe the area and were struck by an explosive.”

Daksa’s Military Legacy

Daksa, a prominent member of the Druze community, was appointed commander of the 401st Brigade just four months ago. He was leading a critical offensive in Jabalia, a strategic zone for Israeli forces during their campaign in northern Gaza.

The Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, praised Daksa’s bravery, saying he was killed “while fighting Hamas terrorists.” Daksa’s death has been described as one of the most significant losses for the Israeli military since the beginning of the Gaza war.

A Decorated Hero

Colonel Daksa was not only known for his leadership but also for his heroic actions during Israel’s 2006 war with Hezbollah. He was decorated for rescuing wounded soldiers during that conflict, and his loss is being felt deeply across Israel’s military ranks. His contributions spanned multiple operations, and he was a revered figure among his comrades.

Israeli Offensive Continues

Israeli forces launched their latest ground and air offensive on October 6, aiming to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities. The Jabalia region has seen some of the heaviest fighting, with Israeli forces determined to prevent Hamas from regrouping. As of Sunday, the assault has resulted in over 400 casualties on the Palestinian side, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency.

National Mourning for a Fallen Hero

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog expressed his condolences, calling Daksa a “hero” and noting that his death is a “great loss to Israel and its society.” Daksa’s death brings the total number of Israeli military fatalities to 358 since the beginning of the ground offensive in Gaza on October 27, 2023.

As the military operation presses on, the death of such a high-ranking officer underscores the challenges Israel faces in its fight against Hamas.