Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to the Gaza Strip and met with members of the country’s armed forces. Reports from a Jerusalem-based publication confirm the encounter and the messages delivered to the troops.
Following the visit, documents indicate Netanyahu urged the soldiers not to waver, emphasizing a commitment to pressing the operation forward in Palestinian territory. The prime minister portrayed the mission as one that would be carried through with determination by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), underscoring the seriousness of the campaign and the resolve of those serving on the ground.
During a gathering of Netanyahu’s Likud party in the Knesset, he described his return from the Gaza Strip and shared what he had heard from a group of reservists. He characterized their shared sentiment as a call to persevere and to pursue the objective until it is achieved. The remarks were framed as part of a broader narrative about steadfastness in defense of national security interests.
Netanyahu also indicated that in the days ahead, Israeli forces would deepen their presence and operations within Gaza. He acknowledged that such steps would likely entail a protracted phase of confrontation and a long war, yet he asserted that the overall mission remained focused on securing strategic outcomes for Israel’s security and residents.
On a later date, the prime minister stated that the government is doing everything within its power to safeguard citizens and to ensure the army can advance its efforts. He pointed to the gradual expansion of operations as part of a calculated approach to the conflict, highlighting the balance between increasing pressure on hostile targets and maintaining civilian protection where possible.
Netanyahu reiterated the aim of achieving complete victory over Hamas, framing the campaign as essential to Israel’s security. He also acknowledged the heavy toll that military action has exacted, noting the sacrifices made by service members and their families as the campaign progresses. The remarks were framed within a larger discussion about national resilience and the responsibilities of leadership during a time of high stakes and sustained hostilities.
Earlier public statements from senior military officials suggested a strategic expansion of the operation zone, including areas such as Khan Younis. The intent described was to disrupt command and control capabilities and to weaken the capabilities of militant groups operating within densely populated urban environments, while aiming to minimize unintended harm to civilians where feasible and to align with international humanitarian norms where possible.