Nahal Oz Military Base Overrun — 66 Soldiers Killed

The Nahal Oz military observation post (Gaza Division intelligence base) on the Israeli border was one of the first military targets overrun. Hamas fighters overwhelmed the base within the first hour, killing approximately 66 soldiers and female intelligence observers (Unit 414 'tatzpitaniyot'). At least 15 female soldiers were taken hostage and brought to Gaza — they became some of the most prominent hostages in subsequent negotiations. The base held critical intelligence surveillance infrastructure.