7 IDF soldiers injured after armored vehicle hits explosive in Gaza’s Zeitoun neighborhood

The IDF said one soldier was moderately hurt and six others sustained light injuries.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Seven Israeli soldiers were wounded Friday night when their armored personnel carrier struck an explosive device during operations in Gaza City’s Zeitoun neighborhood.

The IDF said one soldier was moderately hurt and six others sustained light injuries.

All were evacuated for medical treatment, with five released from hospital overnight. Families of the soldiers were notified shortly after the incident.

The blast occurred as Israeli forces continued ground and air operations in Gaza City and Khan Yunis. According to Al-Mayadeen, a strike also hit the Al-Shawa Tower in central Gaza City, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

The developments come as Israel prepares for its planned takeover of Gaza City, codenamed “Operation Gideon’s Chariots II.”

Ahead of the offensive, the IDF has urged residents in the north to move southward, promising that humanitarian aid would continue despite the suspension of limited ceasefires announced Friday.

Hamas, however, is pressing residents to remain in northern Gaza, describing those who leave as “going to paradise” and using civilians as human shields.

On Saturday, IDF Arabic-language spokesman Lt. Col. Avichay Adraee released a video rejecting Palestinian claims that Israeli soldiers had been kidnapped in the Zeitoun fighting. “This is the illusion of victory they are trying to market, but they will fail and admit defeat,” he said.

Israel continues to strike Hamas targets across the Strip.

Palestinian sources reported drone attacks in Sheikh Radwan in northern Gaza and heavy airstrikes in southern areas. The Israeli security cabinet is scheduled to meet Sunday evening to review operations and humanitarian policy, including coordination of aid deliveries now conducted without UNRWA.