An Israeli colonel, identified as Col. Ehsan Daxa, has tragically lost his life during combat in northern Gaza, marking one of the highest-ranking officers to be killed in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Col. Daxa served as the commander of the 401st “Iron Tracks” Brigade of the 162nd Division within the Israel Defense Forces.
The announcement of Col. Daxa’s death was made by the IDF on Sunday, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu honoring him as “a hero of Israel, a warrior, and a commander” who dedicated his efforts to the security of the nation and its people. Prime Minister Netanyahu extended his condolences to Col. Daxa’s family, including his wife Huda and children Omri, Rif, and Yasmin.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also paid tribute to Col. Daxa, highlighting his bravery and contributions to the state’s security. Gallant emphasized that Col. Daxa had lost his life in a battle against Hamas in Gaza, underscoring the risks faced by Israeli military personnel in the region.
The mayor of Daxa’s hometown, Daliyat al-Karmel, Rafik Halabi, expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of the esteemed officer, describing him as a hero not only to the Druze community but to all of Israel.
Earlier on the same day, Hamas claimed responsibility for targeting an Israeli Merkava tank and a Namer armored personnel carrier near Jabalya camp in northern Gaza. The IDF has not provided further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Col. Daxa’s death, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing hostilities in the region.
