President Isaac Herzog visits IDF troops inside Gaza, praises their sacrifice, defends humanitarian operations, and stresses the urgency of returning hostages home through military and diplomatic efforts.
Gaza Strip —
In a bold and symbolic move, Israeli President Isaac Herzog crossed into the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, standing alongside frontline commanders and reservists as he called for national unity, military resilience, and unrelenting pressure to bring Israel’s hostages home.
Accompanied by Southern Command Chief Maj. Gen. Yaniv Asor, Division 99 Commander Brig. Gen. Yoav Brunner, and senior IDF officials, Herzog was given a full operational briefing—including the humanitarian aid mechanisms that enable the passage of hundreds of supply trucks into Gaza each week.
“We act here under international law,” Herzog affirmed. “The humanitarian efforts are real and ongoing. The only ones sabotaging them are Hamas, who exploit aid routes to fortify their infrastructure and endanger our people.”
💬 “You are protecting all of Israel”
Visiting the brave reservists of Battalion 969, Herzog expressed deep appreciation for their selfless commitment:
“You leave behind your families and livelihoods to protect the entire country. There is no substitute for your presence. The people of Israel must stay united—we cannot falter, not even for a moment.”
Soldiers shared with Herzog their sense of shared responsibility, emphasizing the importance of equality in bearing the burden of national defense.
Troops from the Netzah Yehuda Battalion, made up of religious soldiers, highlighted the balance between faith and duty, and reiterated their resolve to continue contributing meaningfully and respectfully to the IDF’s mission.
🕯 “Bringing our hostages home is the most urgent mission”
The President did not shy away from the elephant in the room—the 50 hostages still held by Hamas.
“You are changing the reality. Your actions on the ground are driving the momentum behind ongoing negotiations. I pray we soon receive good news—news that could reshape the region.”
👁 “Sometimes one person makes all the difference”
At the Yiftach outpost, Herzog met with female border surveillance soldiers from Battalion 414, commending their critical role in safeguarding the homeland.
“You carry enormous responsibility. Sometimes, one decision—made by one person—can change everything.”
