DHAKA: An Israeli soldier was killed and two others were lightly wounded in fighting in the Gaza Strip overnight Thursday, in the course of an Israeli army ground incursion into the Strip.

The soldier was apparently killed by light arms fire. He was evacuated by helicopter to the Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon, where his death was pronounced. The IDF is investigating whether friendly fire was involved.

The soldier's family has been notified, the IDF spokesman said.

This is the first Israeli soldier to be killed in action since Operation Protective Edge was launched 10 days ago. An Israeli citizen, Dror Khenin, was killed by a Gaza-fired mortar shell on Wednesday.

BDST: 1244 HRS, JUL 18, 2014