Israel kills 26 Palestinians in Gaza after deaths of 2 IDF soldiers

On October 20, 2025, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that two of its soldiers were killed in Rafah, Gaza. Initially, the IDF claimed that the soldiers were targeted by a Hamas-fired anti-tank missile. However, it was later revealed that the incident involved unexploded ordnance struck by a bulldozer owned by settlers.

In retaliation for the soldiers" deaths, Israeli forces conducted heavy airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 26 Palestinians. The airstrikes were part of a broader military response following the incident involving the IDF soldiers.

This escalation of violence comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. For more on related coverage, see previous reports on military actions in Gaza.

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