Smoke rises after an Israeli strike, in Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip on Aug. 2, 2014.

JERUSALEM - Israel's military has declared dead a soldier who was previously believed captured by Hamas gunmen in Gaza violence that shattered a temporary ceasefire.

The military announced early Sunday morning that 23-year-old Hadar Goldin of the Givati infantry brigade had been killed in battle on Friday.

Israel's defense minister, along with the chief military rabbi, met with the soldier's family at their home in the town of Kfar Saba.

Hundreds of well-wishers from around Israel gathered outside their home, praying and showing their support. There was an outpouring of grief among the crowd when the military's announcement was made public.