Hamas Will Not Return All Hostages Together, High-Ranking IDF Official Claims

IDF Strategy and Military Action

A senior official from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), overseeing the campaign in the Gaza Strip, revealed today that Hamas is not expected to return all hostages simultaneously. Rather, the group is likely to play a strategic game while retaining some hostages in their possession. The official emphasized that military pressure is the only means that could drive Hamas to negotiate, a tactic that has successfully led to the release of some hostages in the past.

The official outlined the stages of the IDF’s decisive measures against Hamas, predicting that the operation may extend for at least two months. The military’s current objective includes seizing control of 70% of Gaza’s territory, up from an estimated 40% just a few weeks ago.

Objectives Against Hamas

The IDF has set clear goals: dismantling Hamas’ military arm, undermining its governing capabilities, occupying and holding territory, and controlling humanitarian aid while severing ties with Hamas. According to the southern command of the IDF, Hamas remains committed to the destruction of Israel and is attempting to negotiate a ceasefire in order to rebuild its military capabilities.

With the ongoing operation entitled “Chariots of Gideon” now entering a more advanced stage with the inclusion of regular forces, the IDF anticipates continuing this campaign for around two months. The official described the current condition of Hamas as dire, both militarily and civilian-wise, having lost its command chain and facing extensive pressure. Despite visible cracks in public support, Hamas has not yet collapsed.

Ground Operations and Territorial Gain

The military strategy is based on territorial acquisition, and defenses are reported to focus on areas in Khan Yunis and northern Gaza. The IDF is systematically destroying both underground and above-ground Hamas infrastructures. In the latest updates from the Ministry of Communications in Gaza, it was reported that IDF forces now control 77% of the territory, a significant increase since previously claiming control over 40%.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated the aim to seize full control of the Gaza Strip, stating that achieving victory requires not letting the region fall into a state of starvation, which could undermine international support for Israel.

Leadership Statements

During discussions with IDF forces, Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir asserted that the conflict should not be viewed as endless. He stressed the importance of shortening the duration of the war while achieving its objectives. Zamir remarked on the precarious situation for Hamas, noting that the group has lost much of its assets and leadership control. He reassured the troops that all means would be utilized to bring hostages home safely, defeat Hamas, and dismantle its governance structure.

In closing, Zamir highlighted the crucial nature of the soldiers’ work and conveyed his full support for their efforts in the ongoing operations.

As the IDF continues its campaign, the situation in Gaza remains volatile, with significant implications for both regional security and humanitarian considerations