Friends Share Memories of Two Reservists Killed in Gaza Drone Incident
Two Israeli reservists, Staff Sergeant (res.) Ofek Moalem, 23, and Staff Sergeant (res.) Nadav Kali, 24, were killed on Thursday, September 24, 2026, in an incident in northern Gaza. The soldiers were operating explosive-laden drones during a routine operation by the 7007th Battalion near Beit Hanoun.
According to Israel National News, the incident occurred around 4:00 PM. After a successful launch of one drone, a second drone crashed on a military post. When soldiers approached the downed drone, likely attempting to relaunch it, it exploded. Moalem, from Jerusalem, is survived by his parents, twin brother, and sister. His close friend Roy described Moalem's dedication to service, his voluntary reserve duty after demobilization, and his love for his comrades. Moalem's former teacher, Avshalom Nachmani, remembered him as intelligent, modest, and helpful.
Kali, from the settlement of Har Halutz, is survived by his parents, two brothers, and a girlfriend. He lived opposite a former classmate who had previously been killed in Gaza. Both soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon in critical condition but could not be saved.
The military is currently investigating the circumstances of the tragedy, including the possibility of communication interference. The soldiers will be buried in military cemeteries.
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