Tel Aviv — July 16, 2025 (LIVE BLOG) – On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that an explosion that resulted in three Israeli soldiers’ deaths was due to an accidental detonation and not enemy fire as had initially been suspected.
Tragic events took place during an Israeli army operation mission in Khan Younis, which has seen ongoing clashes with Hamas and other militant groups. An explosion occurred late Monday evening after an incorrect explosive device detonated inside a combat engineering vehicle according to an IDF investigation report.
Live Updates:
At 11:00 AM the IDF released the names of three fallen soldiers: Staff Sgt. Eitan Mizrahi (21), Yoav Feldman (20), and Lior Ben-Ami (22) all members of the Combat Engineering Corps. Military funeral services will take place later this week and IDF expressed its condolences to their families as “heroes who gave their lives defending Israel”.
Initial Investigation Indicates “Operational Mishap”
Brigadier General Doron Gavish, leading an internal inquiry, reported early findings indicate the soldiers were trying to dismantle an IED found near a Hamas tunnel shaft when its secondary charge exploded unexpectedly – possibly as the result of either deliberate booby-trapping or miscommunication issues during dismantling operations.
Gavish stated, “there was no evidence of enemy engagement or incoming fire at the time of explosion; this was simply an unfortunate operational accident during a high-risk mission.”
12:30 PM Military Halts Similar Operations Pending Review
The IDF has temporarily suspended similar demolition activities in Gaza while safety protocols are reviewed. An internal directive has been sent out instructing all field commanders to review explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) procedures.
Political and Public Reaction Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed condolences and applauded the soldiers’ bravery while operating in one of the most hazardous environments, protecting Israeli citizens from terror tunnels and hidden explosives.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement: “Our hearts break over losing two sons so dear to us; therefore we will conduct an exhaustive investigation into this incident and take all measures possible to safeguard their wellbeing on the front lines.”
1:45 PM Gaza Residents Report Heavy Overnight Shelling
While reports by the IDF confirm no Hamas activity during or following this incident, residents in Khan Younis reported multiple Israeli airstrikes targeting known militant positions within hours after it blew up. According to IDF intelligence analysts, they appear preplanned.
International Reactions Varies Numerous human rights organizations expressed concerns over Israel’s continued presence in densely populated areas; while several foreign governments issued statements showing solidarity for soldiers’ families while affirming Israel’s right to defend itself.
As the Gaza conflict enters its 10th month, Monday’s fatal accident serves as a stark reminder of both enemy fire and operating in complex urban warfare environments that contain many hidden dangers.
IDF officials have pledged to complete their full investigation within days and further updates are anticipated.