IDF Spokesperson: Operation Gideon's Chariots has three principles

IDF Spokesperson Effi Defrin gave a briefing today (Sunday) explaining the core principles of Operation Gideon's Chariots, which was launched in the Gaza Strip last week.

Defrin said that the operation was based on three principles, based on lessons learned in previous IDF operations in the Gaza Strip: securing "operational control" of the areas the IDF is fighting in and destroying Hamas forces there, removing civilian populations from war zones, and destroying Hamas' command and control infrastructure.

The IDF Spokesperson also reiterated that the operations are meant to allow the government maximal latitude in negotiating a hostage deal, and to that end, the IDF is working with the hostage and missing persons administration to avoid operating in areas suspected to contain hostages. "They are always before us," Defrin said.

At present, the operation is reportedly aimed at continuing to further bisect the Gaza Strip and isolate its component parts, as well as destroy remaining Hamas forces in the north and south of the Gaza Strip as opposed to the center, where the living hostages are suspected to be held.