<p>The IDF spokesperson was asked what the need is to send IDF soldiers into buildings in Gaza after so many disasters, to which he replied: "I cannot elaborate, sometimes there is no choice. We are acting according to the plan of action we have established. We will investigate the incident."</p>

<p>Community leaders mourn the loss of Sgt. Maj. (res.) Chen Gross Hy"d, a resident of Hinanit in Samaria and a member of the community’s emergency team, calling him a brave warrior and pillar of the community.</p>

<p>Post Shavuot and days of Tashlumim: "May HaShem bless and keep you!"</p><p><i>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</i></p>

<p>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement of mourning this afternoon (Friday) following the falling of four soldiers in the Gaza Strip.</p><p>"This is a sad and difficult day. On behalf of all the citizens of Israel, my wife and I send heartfelt condolences to the families of our four heroic fighters who fell in Gaza in the battle to defeat Hamas and bring back our hostages, two of whom's names have been released: Yoav Raver and Chen Gross. Our four fighters gave their lives for the security of us all. The entire people of Israel embrace the dear families in their heavy mourning. May the memory of our heroes be blessed and cherished in the heart of the nation."</p>

<p><i>Israel National News' </i>Israel desk is stopping its round-the-clock news updates at this time in honor of Shabbat. Jerusalem candle lighting time is 19:03 on Friday. Our North American desk will keep you informed until the 20:07 EDT candle lighting time in New York.</p><p>The updates from Israel will resume Saturday night, following the conclusion of Shabbat at 20:25 in Jerusalem.</p><p>Shabbat Shalom!</p><p> </p><p> </p>

<p>IDF Spokesperson Effie Defrin issues solemn statement following the tragic deaths of four IDF soldiers during combat operations in Gaza, shedding light on the challenging realities of the ongoing conflict and the IDF's multifaceted efforts.</p><p><i>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</i></p>

<p>How to build liquidity into your retirement plan before it's too late.</p><p><i>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</i></p>

<p>Rabbi Elie Lemmel says he was attacked twice in a week, most recently hit with a chair in Neuilly-sur-Seine. This follows another assault in Deauville and comes amidst a broader rise in hate crimes in France.</p><p><i>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</i></p>