Israeli soldiers in the Gaza Strip on December 29, 2023 (Photo: Israel Defense Forces).
"The IDF needs to plan ahead based on the understanding that we will need to carry out additional missions and continue fighting throughout the coming year," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a statement on New Year's Day. "The war objective requires a prolonged fight and we are preparing accordingly."
The Israeli military will “smartly” manage its forces in Gaza, allowing reservists to return home to help boost the economy and allowing active-duty troops to train to become commanders, Hagari said.
"This will significantly reduce pressure on the economy and allow the military to build up the strength needed for combat operations next year," Rear Admiral Hagari said.
"We are adjusting the combat methods for each area in Gaza, as well as adjusting the forces needed to carry out the mission in the best possible way. Each area has different characteristics and different operational needs," Hagari added.
The Hamas-Israel war in the Gaza Strip broke out after Hamas gunmen launched a rocket attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The surprise attack killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli government figures.
About 250 people are also being held hostage by Hamas. The Israeli military says 129 people are still being held in the Gaza Strip.
Source
Comment (0)