כיכר השבת

Gideon’s Chariots: IDF Chief in Gaza Says Goal Is to Defeat Hamas and Free the Hostages

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi visited northern Gaza today as part of an operational assessment with Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, Division 162 commander Brig. Gen. Sagi Dahan, and other senior officers. Halevi confirmed that the IDF has officially launched a ground offensive under Operation Gideon’s Chariots, stating: "Our mission is clear: to decisively defeat the enemy and destroy its infrastructure wherever we operate. We cannot go back to October 7." He emphasized two core objectives — the return of the hostages and the dismantling of Hamas. "The IDF will provide full operational flexibility to the political echelon in advancing any hostage deal. A deal is not a pause — it is an achievement. We are actively working toward it." In his message to the troops, Halevi added: "Keep pushing forward. Fulfill your missions. Strike the enemy. I know the weight of this moment — and I trust you to carry it."