IDF Investigates Sailor's Death Amidst Hezbollah Attacks in Northern Israel

The Israeli Defense Forces are investigating the death of Petty Officer 1st Class David Moshe Ben Shitrit, who was killed when shrapnel from an Iron Dome interceptor fell on his patrol boat during a Hezbollah rocket barrage. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and attacks in the region.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are investigating the tragic death of Petty Officer 1st Class David Moshe Ben Shitrit, 21, aboard a naval vessel off northern Israel's coast. The sailor lost his life when shrapnel from an Iron Dome interceptor fell on his patrol boat during Sunday's Hezbollah rocket barrage. Two other sailors sustained moderate and light injuries.

Preliminary findings reveal that the Iron Dome interceptor exploded near the ship, coinciding with the presence of at least two Hezbollah drones in the area. The IDF suggests the interceptor may have mistakenly identified the patrol ship as a hostile target while tracking a drone. Investigators are also considering whether the interceptor successfully targeted a drone that subsequently fell on the ship.

In response, around 100 Israeli fighter jets launched a significant offensive, destroying thousands of Hezbollah launch sites in a pre-emptive strike. The terror group had planned a large-scale attack on northern and central Israel, forcing nearly 80,000 Israelis to evacuate their homes near the Lebanon border. The conflict has already claimed the lives of 26 civilians and 20 soldiers in Israel. Since October 8, Hezbollah has launched over 6,700 rockets and drones. Israeli authorities continue to call for Hezbollah's disarmament in line with UN Security Council resolution 1701, which concluded the Second Lebanon War in 2006.

(With inputs from agencies.)