ANKARA

The Israeli army on Thursday announced five more soldiers were killed in fighting in northern Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the army said seven others were also injured, including three in serious condition. They all belonged to the Paratroopers Brigade’s 202nd Battalion.

The Times of Israel cited a military statement that claimed the incident was caused by "friendly fire" from a tank, and that it is subject to further investigation.

The deaths bring the number of Israeli soldiers killed since the start of onslaught on Gaza Strip to 626.

Israel has killed more than 35,000 Palestinians since Oct. 7, 2023 cross-border offensive by Hamas that claimed 1,200 lives.

While the conflict has destroyed much of the blockaded enclave, it has also led to internal displacement and severe shortages of food and other essentials including fuel and medicine.