The ambush on December 3 in eastern Rafah involved troops from the Golani Brigade's reconnaissance unit, who spotted a suspicious figure entering a building under a blanket. As an armored personnel carrier (APC) approached, at least two (possibly up to five) Hamas terrorists emerged from a nearby tunnel shaft, where dozens of fighters remain trapped underground. One fired an RPG directly at the APC, confirming initial reports and ruling out a pre-placed explosive. This wounded five soldiers: one seriously (a Golani commando), three moderately (two from Golani and one from the 143rd Gaza Division), and one lightly. All were evacuated to hospitals, with families notified; their conditions remain stable as of the latest reports. IDF troops returned fire, killing one attacker and wounding the RPG gunman, who fled back into the tunnel. Searches continued immediately for the escaped terrorist and the initial suspect, amid ongoing sweeps of the Jenina neighborhood. No further captures or clashes have been reported in the area since. This marked the first IDF casualties in over a month and the third major ceasefire violation since the October 10 truce (brokered by the U.S.), following seven total breaches from November 27 to December 3, including attempted escapes and rocket fire. Hamas channels warned fighters to stay cautious, anticipating retaliation. Prime Minister Netanyahu's security meeting that evening resolved on a "forceful response," including potential delays to reopening the Rafah crossing for Gazan exits. Hours later, the IDF struck in Khan Younis, killing six people (per Palestinian reports), including the Hamas Eastern Rafah Battalion commander, his deputy Ismail Abu Labda (aka Abu Hudhayfa), and other senior operatives—likely direct retaliation. Artillery and airstrikes targeted the ambush site as well. Since then, the IDF has killed over 40 more terrorists in Rafah operations, destroying tunnels and capturing eight who surrendered—part of efforts to clear the "Rafah pocket." No new violations or escalations reported in the past 48 hours, but Israel coordinates closely with the U.S. on enforcement. Netanyahu reiterated: Israel "will not tolerate harm to IDF soldiers."