IDF Halts Attack Drone Use After Fatal Gaza Incident, Launches Investigation

The commander of the Ground Forces Command has ordered a 48-hour suspension of all attack drone operations following a serious safety incident in northern Gaza that resulted in the deaths of two reserve soldiers. The decision, effective Friday, is a precautionary measure while the circumstances of the incident are investigated.

The incident occurred Thursday afternoon during an operational activity by the 7007th Battalion. A military drone crashed inside a Gaza position. The drone did not explode upon impact, and soldiers approached it. Moments later, as soldiers were near the drone, it detonated, killing reservists Staff Sergeant Nadav Kali and Staff Sergeant Ofek Moalem. Both soldiers were evacuated for medical treatment but later succumbed to their injuries.

The drone, identified as a "Bat" model, has been in operational use by the IDF across all combat zones since the start of the war. The army is currently examining the sequence of events, including the drone's crash and subsequent explosion.

In addition to the operational halt, Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir has ordered the formation of an expert team, headed by a brigadier general from the Ground Forces Command, to investigate the incident. This team will analyze the circumstances to draw lessons and prevent future occurrences. The IDF is continuing its internal investigation into the matter.