The fatal event occurred in the combat-heavy Shejaiya district, where Hamas militants often disguise themselves as civilians. A soldier, feeling threatened by the shirtless hostages approaching with a white-flagged stick, opened fire.

Two hostages died on the spot, while the third, after being shot and seeking refuge in a building, was also shot dead despite attempting to call for help in Hebrew and a ceasefire command from the battalion leader. The official admitted that this incident violated the military's rules of engagement.

The deceased, Yotam Haim and Alon Shamriz from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and Samer Talalka from Kibbutz Nir Am, had been kidnapped by Hamas on October 7.