IDF Sgt. Maj. Asael Babad Succumbs to Injuries from Gaza Combat

Sgt. Maj. (Res.) Asael Babad, 38, died on January 22, 2026, after succumbing to injuries sustained during combat in Rafah, Gaza, on October 19, 2025. Babad, a member of the Menashe Regional Brigade's 941st Battalion, was critically injured when a Hamas cell attacked Israeli soldiers with anti-tank missiles, resulting in the deaths of two other soldiers and multiple injuries among the troops. His death raises the total number of Israeli combat fatalities since the onset of military operations on October 7, 2023, to 924, with 477 soldiers killed during the ground offensive in Gaza.

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The incident occurred shortly after a ceasefire was established between Israel and Hamas, following a two-year conflict that began with a Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. The ceasefire was intended to halt hostilities, but both sides have accused each other of violations. Babad's injury and subsequent death highlight the ongoing volatility in the region, where military operations continue despite attempts at peace.

Times of Israel

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed Babad's death and expressed condolences to his family, noting his bravery and dedication during his service. Battalion 941 commander Moshe Tesler stated that the soldiers and officers of the unit stand with Babad's family in their time of grief. Local officials praised Babad's commitment to dismantling terrorist infrastructure during his service in Gaza.

i24NEWS

The circumstances surrounding Babad's injury and the subsequent military actions have drawn criticism regarding the effectiveness of the ceasefire. Critics argue that the ongoing military operations and the high casualty rates indicate a failure in achieving lasting peace. Additionally, the IDF's airstrikes in response to the October attack have resulted in civilian casualties, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact of military actions in Gaza.

Times of Israel

While the IDF reported that Babad was critically injured during a ceasefire violation, Palestinian sources claim that Israeli airstrikes have repeatedly violated the ceasefire agreement, with accusations of over 1,300 breaches since its inception. This discrepancy underscores the complexity of the situation and the challenges in verifying claims from both sides.

Times of Israel

• “Through extraordinary faith and perseverance, he did everything he could to recover and return to his family,” — Local Municipality Statement

i24NEWS

• “the targeting of a vehicle belonging to the Egyptian aid committee in central Gaza, in which three photojournalists were killed while carrying out their work in displacement camps, constitutes a war crime and a grave violation of the cease-fire agreement.” — Hamas Statement

YnetNews

The situation remains tense as Israel and Hamas continue to navigate the fragile ceasefire. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is reportedly working on a peace plan that includes disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of a technocratic government in Gaza. However, the success of these negotiations remains uncertain, with both sides entrenched in their positions.

The Jerusalem Post