IDF soldiers wounded by RPG in Rafah; Israel responds

As a Namer armored personnel carrier moved into the area to support the forces, three terrorists emerged from a nearby tunnel and engaged the troops.

By World Israel News Staff

Hamas carried out yet another serious ceasefire violation on Wednesday when terrorists emerged from an underground tunnel in eastern Rafah and opened fire on IDF troops operating in the area.

The attack prompted a sharp warning from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who vowed that Israel will not allow Hamas to harm its soldiers without consequence.

According to preliminary information, the incident began when troops identified a suspicious figure moving through the area and entering a building. Soldiers carried out checks but did not locate the individual.

A short time later, as a Namer armored personnel carrier moved into the area to support the forces, three terrorists emerged from a nearby underground tunnel and engaged the troops.

IDF soldiers returned fire, hitting at least one of the attackers. During the exchange, the terrorists fired an RPG at the APC, injuring several soldiers. At least one of the terrorists retreated back into the tunnel. The IDF says searches continue for the remaining suspects involved in the incident.

One Golani soldier was critically wounded, while two additional Golani fighters and a non-commissioned officer from the Gaza Division were moderately injured. All were evacuated to a hospital.

Netanyahu condemned the assault and issued a clear message to Hamas: “I send my wishes for a swift recovery to our heroic fighters,” he said, adding that Hamas “continues to violate the ceasefire agreement and carry out terror attacks against our forces.” He warned that “Israel will not tolerate harm to IDF soldiers and will respond accordingly.”

A few hours later, the Israeli Air Force carried out strikes in the Khan Younis and Gaza City areas as part of Israel’s response to the attack.

According to the IDF, the operation targeted a Hamas terrorist in southern Gaza and was conducted by Southern Command, guided by Military Intelligence and the Shin Bet. The IDF said its forces remain deployed in accordance with the ceasefire framework and “will continue to act to remove any immediate threat.”

The IDF continues its searches in eastern Rafah and remains prepared to take whatever action is necessary to defend Israeli civilians and ensure the safety of its troops.