IDF Claims Significant Gains in Gaza Three Years Into War

Three years after the start of the war, the Commander of the Gaza Division, Brigadier General Liron Biton, stated that the IDF controls 63% of the Gaza Strip. In an interview on the IDF podcast, Biton detailed achievements including the establishment of nearly 40 new outposts, which he said provide a significant advantage by positioning soldiers at the forefront of defense. He also asserted that Hamas's ability to smuggle weapons into Gaza has been curtailed due to IDF control over the crossings.

Biton further claimed that the IDF is actively degrading Hamas's capabilities by targeting operatives, seizing weapons, and restricting their operational freedom. He highlighted extensive efforts to locate and destroy underground infrastructure, stating that most of it has already been neutralized through drilling and advanced technological mapping across the entire Gaza Strip. "Hamas is in a very, very difficult situation," he added.

Regarding Hamas's military leadership, Biton reported that all brigade commanders and most battalion commanders within Hamas's military wing have been eliminated during the war. He acknowledged the complexity of military operations when attempting to rescue hostages, noting that the IDF exercises extreme caution to avoid harming them. Biton recounted a specific instance where a rescue operation was planned but ultimately aborted due to the risk to the hostages, a decision he stands by.

He expressed surprise at the success in returning hostages, calling it a "crazy achievement" and a testament to the IDF's unique capabilities. Biton concluded by stating his belief that the IDF has done everything possible to bring hostages home.