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Israeli defense minister mourns Lt. Col. ‘M’, killed in firefight with Hamas

Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman mourned the death of the slain IDF soldier, only known as Lt. Col. M.

By World Israel News Staff

On Monday morning, Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman mourned the death of slain soldier Lt. Col. M, whose full name has not been disclosed.

“The nation of Israel lost tonight an accomplished warrior, whose contribution to the state will remain undisclosed for many years. I wish to pass on my deep, heartfelt condolences to his family wishes for a speedy recover to the wounded soldier in the incident,” Liberman tweeted.

IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot said IDF forces fought bravely and that “the IDF owes Lt. Col. M more than we can say.”

Lt. Col. M died Sunday night in a firefight with Hamas terrorists. A second IDF soldier was injured and evacuated to a hospital in Beersheba. Seven terrorists were killed in the incident.

According to reports, the incident occurred deep in the Gaza Strip as Lt. Col. M together with an IDF special forces team went on a mission to either kill or capture a senior Hamas terrorist. Although driving in a civilian vehicle, the Israeli team was identified and engaged by the terrorists.

The Israeli Air Force was called in to provide cover and fired missiles at the terrorists, killing seven of them.

Also Sunday night, Gaza terrorists fired 17 rockets into Israeli territory. No injuries were reported.

In light of the security situation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew back from Paris Sunday night, shortening his trip by one day and cancelling his meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and the French Jewish community.

The IDF Home Command has issued instructions for the area, cancelling school for Monday. Israel Railways announced trains will not be running between Ashkelon and Beersheba, and the stations at Sderot, Netivot and Ofakim will be closed.