Gaza Division Commander Details Operations, Tunnel Destruction Efforts

The Commander of the Gaza Division, Brigadier General Liron Batito, revealed in an interview with the IDF podcast that the division now controls 63% of the Gaza Strip. He stated that nearly 40 new outposts have been established, providing a significant advantage by positioning IDF soldiers at the forefront of defense, with Israeli communities located behind them. Batito also noted that Hamas's ability to smuggle items into Gaza through the crossings has been severely curtailed.

Batito explained that the IDF is actively working to degrade Hamas's capabilities by targeting operatives, seizing weapons, and restricting the group's operational freedom. A key aspect of this effort involves extensive drilling throughout the Gaza Strip to locate and destroy underground infrastructure. He claimed that most of the underground network has already been destroyed, but the IDF continues to map the entire area with technological means, drilling every few meters deep into the ground.

He further commented on the elimination of Hamas's military leadership, stating that over three years of conflict, all heads of the military wing, most brigade commanders, and many battalion commanders have been neutralized. He specifically mentioned the recent elimination of the Rafah and Khan Yunis brigade commanders, who he described as second and third-generation leaders.

Addressing the return of residents to the Gaza border communities, Batito expressed surprise that 90% of those present on October 7th have returned, with new residents also moving into kibbutzim and moshavim. He acknowledged the trauma of the October 7th attack, emphasizing the importance of remembering the event and visiting memorials to maintain focus and remembrance.

Batito also discussed the complexities of operating in Gaza with hostages present, noting the extreme caution required to avoid endangering them. He recounted an instance where an operation to rescue living hostages was planned but ultimately did not proceed, a decision he later felt was justified to prevent further risk to them. He expressed pride in the efforts to return hostages, calling it a "crazy achievement."