IDF: Two soldiers killed by Israeli military drone exploding within Gaza outpost during operation

Jerusalem Post/Israel News/Defense NewsThe two soldiers were operating the drone when it crashed; they went to investigate the crash site, and the drone exploded, 99th Division Chief Brig.-Gen. Elad Tzuri said.Follow us on GoogleFallen soldiers Ofek Moalem, 23, and Nadav Kali, 24, are pictured following the IDF announcement of their death in the Gaza Strip. Announcement dated September 25, 2026.(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 08:22Updated: SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 08:33Two IDF soldiers were killed when a drone that they were operating landed and exploded within their military outpost in the northern Gaza Strip, the military said on Friday.The soldiers, who were reservists serving as part of the 16th Brigade, were initially evacuated to Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon but were pronounced dead, 99th Division Chief Brig.-Gen. Elad Tzuri said.The two soldiers were Maj. (Res.) Nadav Kali, 24, from Har Halutz, and Maj. (Res.) Ofek Moalem, 23, from Jerusalem.The soldiers were operating a drone, successfully completing their first operation, Tzuri noted.However, during the second operation, the drone crashed within their outpost in the northern Gaza Strip. The two soldiers went to investigate the crash site, at which time the drone exploded, Tzuri said.IDF Paratroopers Brigade operating in the Gaza Strip. Pictures released on August 24, 2026. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)The two were "excellent soldiers," Tzuri said, highlighting that one was a sergeant and the other a squad commander.The 16th Brigade had been operating in this area of the northern Gaza Strip since September 10, Tzuri clarified.No other soldiers were wounded in the incident, Tzuri added.IDF investigating whether Hamas responsible for incidentThe IDF is investigating whether Hamas utilized the electromagnetic spectrum to bring down the drone. The IDF currently believes that Hamas lacks the operational capability in the spectrum domain to carry out such a maneuver.The investigation is also examining how the explosive device detonated as the two soldiers approached the drone. The IDF declined to specify whether it was a suicide drone or a drone designed to drop munitions.The IDF has grounded all attack and munition-dropping drones across all combat sectors pending the outcome of the investigation into this serious incident.Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report.Follow us on Google