Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi has announced plans for the Southern Command to intensify military operations in the Gaza Strip. The objective is to exert increased pressure on Hamas, ultimately leading to the dismantling of the organization and the release of hostages held by the terror group.
In a press statement in southern Israel, Lt. Gen. Halevi emphasized the need to persist in the fight against Hamas to achieve tangible results. He stated, “Pressure that will lead to the dismantling of Hamas and the return of the hostages. This pressure, and only it, has so far managed to bring about the return of many hostages.”
Approaching the 100th day of the conflict, Lt. Gen. Halevi acknowledged the ongoing challenge of rescuing hostages held by Hamas. He highlighted the military’s commitment to employing various means, especially covert operations, to secure the return of all hostages.
To achieve meaningful outcomes, Lt. Gen. Halevi stressed the importance of continuing operations in enemy territory and resisting attempts to force a ceasefire that might not yield substantial results. He affirmed the military’s dedication to maintaining pressure on Hamas, emphasizing, “We have to keep pressing, and that is exactly what we are doing.”
