Watch Live: IDF Spokesperson to deliver press update on Gaza envelope operations

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Brigadier General Effie Defrin, the IDF Spokesperson, will deliver a media update today, Monday, May 5, 2025, at 19:15 in the Gaza Envelope area. The briefing, which will be broadcast live on the IDF’s official Telegram channel, is restricted to reporters only, with photographers not permitted to attend. Reporters will have the opportunity to ask questions at the conclusion of the statement. The IDF encouraged the public to follow its official Telegram channel for real-time updates.

This press conference follows recent reports of significant IDF operational developments in the Gaza Strip. On May 4, 2025, Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir announced the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservists to expand operations in Gaza, aiming to increase pressure on Hamas to secure the release of hostages and dismantle the terror organization’s infrastructure. The operation, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” was unanimously approved by the security cabinet and is set to intensify if no hostage deal is reached by the end of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East visit, scheduled for May 13–16, 2025.

Defrin’s update is likely to address these escalating military efforts, including the IDF’s recent activities in areas like Shejaiya and Khan Younis, where troops have eliminated terrorists, destroyed Hamas infrastructure, and targeted rocket launch sites. The IDF has also emphasized maintaining humanitarian aid corridors while ensuring aid does not reach Hamas. Given the timing and location in the Gaza Envelope, Defrin may provide insights into the security situation near Israel’s border communities and the IDF’s strategy to counter ongoing threats from Hamas.

Brigadier General Defrin, appointed IDF Spokesperson in March 2025, replaced Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari. A former tank commander and head of the IDF’s international cooperation unit, Defrin brings extensive experience to his role, having served as Israel’s defense attaché to India. His briefing is expected to clarify the IDF’s next steps amid heightened regional tensions.

The following links include a livestream of the IDF announcement set to commence at 19:15:

https://event.gostreaming.tv/live/dotz/

https://www.idf.il/294317