Two Reserve Soldiers Killed in Gaza Drone Accident
Two Israeli reserve soldiers, Nadav Kali, 24, from Har Halutz, and Ofek Moalem, 23, from Jerusalem, were killed Friday in a "operational accident" in northern Gaza. The soldiers, who served in the 7007th Battalion of the 16th Brigade, died after a "bat" explosive drone they had launched at a nearby terrorist malfunctioned and returned to their position. Initial reports suggest the first drone successfully reached its target, but the second drone unexpectedly turned back towards the soldiers' position and crashed into a structure within their outpost. The soldiers were apparently injured when the drone exploded as they approached it. They were evacuated by helicopter to Barzilai Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
In response to the incident, the IDF has grounded all armed drone flights across all operational sectors until a full investigation is completed. This includes both "throwing" and "suicide" type drones.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences, stating, "Nadav and Ofek were brave reserve soldiers who defended Israel's security." He added that the IDF is investigating the incident and must "draw all necessary lessons and implement them to ensure the safety and security of IDF soldiers."
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Transportation Minister Miri Regev also offered their condolences to the families. Gadi Eisenkot, a former IDF chief of staff and current MK, also mourned the soldiers' deaths. Nadav Kali will be buried at 1:00 PM in the Ma'agav cemetery, and Ofek Moalem will be buried at 12:00 PM on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.
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