An Israeli military helicopter crashed near Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip during a nighttime evacuation mission, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to seven others, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday.
The aircraft, identified as an "Owl" helicopter, was on a mission to transport an injured soldier to a hospital when it went down during landing. Initial reports suggest that enemy fire was not the cause of the crash, though the exact circumstances remain under investigation.
"The cause of the crash is still being investigated," an IDF spokesperson said in a statement. "There has been no change in the operational activity of the Air Force."
The names of the two soldiers killed in the incident have not yet been released, pending notification of their families. The seven injured soldiers were evacuated to nearby hospitals for treatment, with injuries described as varying in severity.
In response to the incident, Major General Tomer Bar, commander of the Israeli Air Force, has appointed a special investigative committee to examine the crash thoroughly.
This incident comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, though military officials stress that it does not appear to be related to hostile action. The IDF continues to maintain its operations in the area, despite this setback.
Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses and after the families of the deceased soldiers have been fully notified.
