In a tragic incident, Israeli troops mistakenly shot and killed three Israeli hostages during a ground operation in the Gaza Strip, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed. The incident took place in Shejaiye, one of the densely populated communities in northern Gaza that the Israeli military has identified as a Hamas stronghold. During the intense ground fighting between Israeli forces and the militant group Hamas, the IDF mistakenly identified the hostages as a threat and fired at them, resulting in their deaths. The individuals have been identified as Yotam Haim, who was taken from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and Samer Talalka, who was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am.

The third hostage's name was not released at the request of his family. The victims were initially found in the area of Shejaiye and suspicion arose over their identities. Their bodies were transferred to Israeli territory for examination, and it was confirmed that they were Israeli hostages. The incident comes just over two months after Gaza-based militant group Hamas captured roughly 240 hostages in its attack on Israel. Hamas released more than 100 hostages during a seven-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners and detainees held by Israel.

However, at least 110 others are believed to remain alive in captivity in Gaza, according to the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The IDF expressed deep remorse over the incident and has launched an investigation into the killing of the hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences to the families of the hostages killed in the tragic event. This tragedy highlights the complex and dangerous situation in the region and emphasizes the need for continued efforts to bring about peace and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians.