Amid intensifying operations in northern Gaza, IDF Chief Eyal Zamir vows expanded combat strategies and praises frontline troops for accelerating Hamas’ collapse.
Shejaiya, Gaza (Sunday) — In a powerful and emotional visit to the front lines of the Gaza Strip, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir met with his son, Maj. A., a company commander in the Armored Corps who has been actively fighting in the conflict since its outbreak.
The visit, centered in the embattled Shejaiya neighborhood of northern Gaza, came amid a review of Operation “Gideon’s Chariots”, Israel’s intensified military campaign against Hamas. Zamir conducted aerial and on-ground observations, held strategic briefings with commanders, and outlined the IDF’s evolving objectives.
“You are fighting the most just war imaginable—with courage that will define the future of Israel’s security,” Zamir told the assembled battalion leaders.
Zamir’s message was both a morale boost and a strategic declaration. He cited the massacre of Druze civilians in Sweida, Syria, as a stark reminder that “those who cannot defend themselves in the Middle East cannot survive.”
🔥 Shift in Strategy: Escalation Ahead
Zamir made clear that the IDF is preparing to escalate its operations, implementing new battlefield configurations to maximize tactical advantage, minimize casualties, and widen territorial control.
“We are reshaping our approach. These tactical gains are crushing Hamas’ operational core and laying the groundwork for a potential hostage deal,” he said.
He credited frontline troops with pivotal advances—eliminating terrorists, destroying above and underground infrastructure, and clearing strategic zones. According to Zamir, these victories are directly influencing negotiations for hostage releases.
🎖️ Operational Resolve Despite Losses
Zamir addressed the human cost of war with solemn resolve:
“We’ve lost soldiers in the sacred mission of protecting our communities. This is the price of combat. We must not retreat into defense alone—our strength lies in taking the offensive. That is the core lesson of October 7.”
He urged troops to maintain “perseverance and patience”, promising that “every hostage returned will be a testament to your efforts.”
🧭 Leadership on the Ground
Zamir was joined by top military brass, including:
- Maj. Gen. Yaniv Asor, Commander of the Southern Command
- Brig. Gen. Guy Levy, 98th Division Commander
- Col. S., Commander of the 7th Armored Brigade
- Col. R., Commander of the 214th Fire Brigade
Their presence underscored the IDF’s commitment to firsthand leadership and real-time decision-making in the field.
