Two Israeli Reservists Killed in Gaza Drone Accident

Two Israeli reservist soldiers, Sergeant Major (res.) Ofek Moalem, 23, from Jerusalem, and Sergeant Major (res.) Nadav Kali, 24, were killed in an operational accident in the northern Gaza Strip on Tuesday. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM while they were operating two suicide drones near a military outpost close to Beit Hanoun as part of a planned operation by the 7007th Battalion. The first drone reached its target, but the second crashed within the outpost. When Moalem and Kali approached the fallen drone, it apparently exploded, severely injuring both. They were evacuated by helicopter to Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon, where they succumbed to their wounds. Moalem, who was studying at the time of his death, was remembered by friends as exceptionally helpful, positive, and dedicated, having volunteered for extensive reserve duty even when not required. His former high school educator described him as intelligent, shy, modest, and always the first to offer assistance. Kali, who lived in Har Halutza, is survived by his parents, two brothers, and a partner. He lived opposite a former classmate, Staff Sergeant Itay Sadon, who was killed in Gaza in November 2023. The military is investigating the incident, examining all possibilities, including potential communication disruptions, although defense officials believe Hamas lacks the capability to control military drones. Moalem is to be buried at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem, and Kali at the Misgav Cemetery.