A British-Israeli soldier has been confirmed dead during military operations in northern Gaza, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
The soldier, Sergeant Yisrael Natan Rosenfeld, aged 20, hailed from the city of Ra’anana and served in the 601st Combat Engineering Battalion of the 401st Armoured Brigade. In a statement released on Sunday, the IDF said:
“Sergeant Yisrael fell in combat in northern Gaza. The IDF extends its deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. May his memory be a blessing.”
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has stated it is “looking into reports” that the fallen IDF soldier held British nationality.
Local reports and Israeli media had previously identified Sgt Rosenfeld, with The Times of Israel stating he was killed by an explosive device on Sunday. He is reported to have emigrated from London to Israel with his family 11 years ago.
Conflict Continues Between Israel and Hamas
Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has persisted since the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attack, which triggered one of the deadliest and most sustained escalations in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Over 860 Israeli soldiers have reportedly died since the outbreak of hostilities — more than 400 of whom were killed during ground operations in Gaza.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s Health Ministry, operated by the Hamas-controlled government, claims the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 56,000, making it the deadliest phase in Israeli-Palestinian conflict history.
International Pressure Mounts for Ceasefire
In a renewed call for diplomacy, former US President Donald Trump urged swift action on a potential ceasefire agreement.
“MAKE THE DEAL IN GAZA. GET THE HOSTAGES BACK!!!” he posted on social media early Sunday, days after suggesting a resolution could be reached within a week.
According to Israeli officials, Ron Dermer, a key adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is expected to travel to Washington for discussions surrounding a ceasefire deal.
There is also speculation that Mr Netanyahu himself may visit the United States in the coming weeks, signalling potential movement in high-level negotiations.
