Druze Arab IDF Tank Commander, Col. Ehsan Daqsa, Killed in Combat

Col. Ehsan Daksa, a Druze Arab who was the commander of the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) 401st Armored Brigade, was killed in action Sunday when he was struck by an explosive charge while standing outside his tank.

IDF spokesman Maj. Gen. Daniel Hagari said in a statement:

Colonel Ahsan Daksa, commander of the 401st Brigade, fell in combat today in the Jabaliya area of ​​northern Gaza. In the same incident, a battalion commander was seriously injured and two additional officers sustained minor injuries. The commanders were at the scene in a tank and went outside to monitor the scene, but were hit by an explosive device while outside the tank.

Since the first day of the war, soldiers and commanders of the 401st Brigade have been fighting in Gaza, leading the push into northern Gaza, then Rafah, and now Jabaliya. Asan was an excellent officer and a humble warrior who served in various combat positions within the armored forces. He previously received the Chief of Staff Award for his bravery in evacuating wounded soldiers under fire during the Second Lebanon War. On October 7, he left his studies and immediately arrived at the battle in the South, where he has been fighting ever since. He assumed command of the 401st Brigade about four months ago. Shortly after assuming command, he led the fighting in Tel al-Sultan in Rafah, leading the brigade's efforts to defeat a Hamas battalion, and leading the encirclement of the area and the elimination of many terrorists. It is likely that Shinwar was prevented from escaping before being eliminated. He went on to lead his brigade in the battle for Jabariya, where fighting is still ongoing. Asan was leading his troops at the front, but he fell.

Ahsan, 41, left behind a wife and three children. In the past few hours, IDF representatives delivered the tragic news to his family in Dariyat al-Carmel. We extend our deepest sympathies to them during this difficult time and will continue to stand by them.

Tonight, we are once again reminded of the great sacrifices of this war. We pay our respects to those who have passed away and their families who bear the pain and loss. We are committed to providing support and comfort during this difficult time.

The commander of the 401st Brigade continues to fight and is currently directing operations in Gaza. Assan's post will be filled by Col. Meir Biderman, who served as deputy commander of the 162nd Division.

Druze Arabs serve in the Israeli military and are among the most highly decorated soldiers. Another tank commander, Lt. Col. Salman Habaka, helped rescue Kibbutz Beeri on October 7, rescuing a soldier before he was killed in Gaza.