IDF Halts Drone Strikes After Two Soldiers Killed in Gaza Blast

The Israeli military has temporarily suspended the use of attack drones across all operational fronts following the deaths of two soldiers in the Gaza Strip. The halt, lasting 48 hours, is in response to a serious incident involving a drone explosion, the circumstances of which are under investigation. Military correspondent Avi Ashkenazi of Maariv reported that IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered the formation of a special expert team, led by a brigadier general, to determine the cause of the blast and prevent future occurrences. The commander of the Ground Forces also mandated the temporary cessation of drone deployment.

Following the 48-hour period, the army will reassess the situation to decide on the resumption of drone operations. The incident involved a "Skydweller" drone, a loitering munition capable of carrying approximately two kilograms of explosives and engaging moving targets, which has been utilized by the IDF since the war began. The drone's adaptability has made it a key asset in Gaza combat.

While the investigation continues, the IDF is exploring potential Hamas involvement, specifically whether the enemy could have interfered with the drone's radio frequency spectrum. However, the military currently assesses that Hamas lacks the operational capabilities for such an attack. The investigation also seeks to understand why the munition detonated as two soldiers approached it. The IDF has not specified whether a kamikaze drone or a missile-equipped craft was involved.

All offensive and missile drones have been deactivated in all combat zones until the investigation concludes. The two fallen soldiers were identified as 24-year-old reserve Sergeant Nadav Keli from Me'ar Ha'Hula and 23-year-old reserve Sergeant Ofek Moualem from Jerusalem, both serving in the 7007th Battalion of the 16th Brigade. Their funerals are scheduled for Friday. Separately, the IDF is reportedly preparing for a new wave of attacks in Judea and Samaria, increasing forces after an incident near the Makabim checkpoint.