The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Sunday that a brigade commander, Colonel Ihsan Daqsa, was killed and three other officers were injured, one critically, during clashes in Jabalia, northern Gaza.

According to Israeli army radio, Daqsa, 41, was leading the 401st Brigade and was with three other officers in tanks within the combat zone. As they moved approximately 20 meters from their tanks, an explosive device detonated, resulting in Daqsa’s death and injuries to the three officers, including the deputy commander of the 162nd Division and the commander of the 52nd Battalion.

This incident marks Daqsa as one of four colonels killed since the onset of hostilities in Gaza. In response, the commander of the 162nd Division has appointed Major Meir Biederman as Daqsa's successor for the 401st Brigade. Additionally, Major Daniel Ela has been temporarily reassigned to replace the critically injured commander of the 52nd Battalion.

Military expert Osama Khalid, speaking to Al Jazeera, noted that Daqsa's death represents a significant loss for the Israeli military, as he was the highest-ranking officer killed since the beginning of the conflict, leading the elite armored brigade known as "Steel Legs." This brigade is part of the 162nd Division and is renowned for its combat capabilities.

Khalid explained that Colonel Daqsa had directed numerous offensive operations in Gaza, including in Shifa Hospital, Zeitoun neighborhood, Beit Hanoun, Jabalia, and Rafah, and was heavily involved in controversial military actions. His targeted killing during fierce combat is viewed as a tactical success for Hamas's Al-Qassam Brigades in northern Gaza.

The expert emphasized that this incident not only highlights the operational capabilities of Hamas but also signals a shift in the dynamics of the battlefield, where commanding officers are now being directly targeted. He indicated that the implications of this significant security breach may extend beyond this incident, suggesting the potential for further casualties among high-ranking officials.