Indian-Origin Soldier Martyred in Gunfight with Hamas in Gaza Strip

Indian-Origin Soldier Martyred in Gunfight with Hamas in Gaza Strip

Indian-Origin Soldier, 34, Killed in Gunfight with Hamas in Gaza Strip

A tragic incident occurred this week in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, where a 34-year-old Indian-origin Israeli soldier lost his life during fighting. The community members have confirmed the death of Master Sgt. (res.) Gil Daniels from Ashdod, who was killed on Tuesday in Gaza. His funeral was held at the military cemetery in his hometown on Wednesday.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) also confirmed the news, stating that Gil was one of two soldiers killed during the fighting in the Gaza Strip. The Indian Jewish Heritage Centre expressed their condolences, saying, “Israel has lost many soldiers in this vicious and cruel war, the best of its sons and daughters who stood up to fight for the honor of the entire nation of Israel. Today, we mourn the death of another IDF soldier, Master Sgt. (Res.) Gil Daniels (34), son of Yoel and Mazal.”

Gil had joined the reserves on October 10, shortly after the war began. He was highly regarded among his peers, known for his genius mind and great personality. Tragically, he had gotten engaged just a month before his untimely death. His friend, Tirza Lavi, expressed her grief, stating, “Such a loss!”

Gil had completed his Masters at the School of Pharmacy at Hebrew University. His classmates remember him fondly, stating, “With immense pain, we, the members of the 61st group of the class of 2007, mourn his death…his smile is remembered by all his friends.”

Since the IDF launched its ground operation in Gaza, a total of 86 Israeli soldiers have lost their lives in the fighting. Among them are at least four Indian-origin Israeli soldiers who have been killed since October 7.

(Note: This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)