This IDF-provided footage shows members of one of Israel’s Sayeret, or recon units, assaulting a room containing Hamas fighters in Khan Yunis, Gaza. The video is taken from the perspective of one of the IDF soldier’s helmet cameras. At 0:34, an improvised incendiary or flare is thrown at the cameraman, but no casualties are shown.

Unit 621, otherwise known as Sayeret Egoz, was founded in 1995 specifically to revolutionize tactics in dealing with Hezbollah, according to the IDF. Now that expertise is being leveraged against Hamas. Along with the typical expertise expected of a commando or special forces unit, Egoz specializes in “miniature warfare” (The IDF here uses the term to refer to short-range operations). While they are able to fight anywhere in Israel at any time, their usual area of focus is Northern Israel. A unique feature Egoz employs is a weapon development division, which exists to create and test new purpose-built gear for Sayeret operations.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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