An Israeli soldier was killed and 16 others wounded during an overnight anti-terror operation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Jenin, the military confirmed.

Captain Alon Sacagiu, commander of a sniper platoon in the Haruv Patrol of the Kfir Brigade, was killed when Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) detonated beneath an IDF convoy entering the city, IDF spokespersons said Thursday. Sacagiu was posthumously promoted to the rank of captain.

The IDF reported that a brigade ambulance, navigating a road section cleared by a D9 bulldozer for IEDs, was struck by an explosive buried unusually deep—approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) beneath the surface.

After the initial blast caused minor injuries and vehicle damage, additional troops arrived to assist, triggering a second explosion that killed Sacagiu and injured six others, one critically. Military officials suspect the second explosion was remotely triggered by terrorists monitoring the scene.

Troops investigating the incident discovered evidence of a wireless activation system for one of the devices. The IDF is reviewing protocols to minimize the risk of similar IED traps in the future. In total, 16 soldiers sustained mostly mild-to-moderate injuries from the explosions.

Recent months have seen a rise in IED production and use in Palestinian Territories’ terror hotspots, particularly near refugee camps in the northern West Bank, according to the IDF’s Judea and Samaria Division. Efforts are underway to locate and dismantle IED production facilities and apprehend those responsible.

Following the operation, IDF and Border Patrol personnel proceeded with the mission, apprehending three terrorists at a Jenin hospital, one reportedly wounded in a clash with Israeli forces.

The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in the region as Israeli forces confront heightened threats posed by explosives and terrorism.