The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) admitted on Friday (December 15) that they mistakenly killed three Israeli hostages during its ground operation in Gaza City.
IDF chief spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told reporters that Israeli troops found the hostage on Friday and mistakenly identified them as threats and shot them dead. He added that it was still being investigated if the slain hostages escaped their captors or were left for dead, The Independent reported.
IDF Expresses "Deep Remorse" for Friendly Fire
Hagari said that the deaths occurred in the Gaza City suburb area of Shijaiyah, where troops were engaged in fierce combat against Hamas in recent days.
The admiral added that the IDF expressed "deep remorse" for the incident and is currently investigating the matter.
After taking their bodies to the Hatzvi Center at Shura for further examination, the three hostages were identified as Yotam Haim, Samer Talalka, and a third whose family did not want to disclose his name.
"IDF and Israel Police representatives have notified all of the families," the IDF said in a statement. "The IDF expresses deep remorse over the tragic incident and sends the families its heartfelt condolences. Our national mission is to locate the missing and return all the hostages home."
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