TEL AVIV, April 7. /TASS/. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has lost 604 troops since the start of its ground operation against the Palestinian movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the IDF press service said.

According to the latest data, four more Israeli serviceman were killed last Saturday.

Tensions in the Middle East flared up again on October 7, 2023 after Hamas militants launched a surprise incursion into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip. Israel announced a total blockade of Gaza and started carrying out strikes on targets in the Strip, as well as on certain areas in Lebanon and Syria. Clashes are also taking place in the West Bank.