The chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, Herzi Halevi, indicated that signs point to a collapse of Hamas’s control system in the Gaza Strip, a claim reported by Israeli media. He noted daily gains by the Israeli forces and observed that some terrorists surrendered in recent days, a development he views as evidence of a deteriorating Hamas structure and a cue for Israel to act with heightened caution.
In a separate interview, former Israeli official Dan Hanegbi spoke with the Israeli television channel 12. He suggested that Israel had not faced any US-imposed restrictions on when a military operation in Gaza should proceed, stressing Washington’s understanding that it cannot dictate the duration of Israel’s efforts. Hanegbi also conveyed that Washington shares the view that Israel remains committed to the objective of securing the release of all hostages held in Gaza.
On December 9, the U.S. State Department approved the shipment of tank shells and related equipment valued at $106.5 million to Israel, a move described by officials as supporting operational needs in the region.
Earlier statements from Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant indicated that, following a brief ceasefire, the Gaza operation is expected to extend for at least two more months, signaling an ongoing, extended phase of military activity.
These updates reflect a complex, ongoing assessment within the Israeli defense establishment about Hamas’s capabilities, international coordination, and the timeframe of military objectives in Gaza. Attribution: Israeli media reports and official briefings.