Title: Israel Sends Brigade to Expand Rafah Operation After Friendly Fire Incident

The Times of Israel reported today that the Israeli army has sent an additional brigade to Rafah in southern Gaza to join the 162nd Division, which has been conducting operations in the eastern part of the city since the beginning of this month. The move comes as the Israeli government is expected to approve the expansion of the military offensive in Rafah. The Israeli army announced in a statement that five of its soldiers were killed in northern Gaza during the ongoing conflict that began on October 7. According to Ynet, the army stated that the soldiers were killed on Wednesday due to "friendly fire," noting that at least eight others were injured, three of them critically. Earlier this month, Israel initiated its attack on Rafah, where 1.4 million displaced people have sought refuge, according to the United Nations. Israel is conducting a retaliatory military campaign against the besieged Gaza Strip.