IDF Chief of Staff Vows to Prevent Future Surprises

Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir visited the Gaza Division on Tuesday to observe a large-scale command exercise. The drill, which included commanders from the Southern Command, the Military Advocate General, the Gaza Division, and the Operations Division, was designed based on lessons learned from the October 7th events. It simulated defense and offense scenarios aimed at defeating the enemy, while Zamir assessed the forces' readiness and preparedness for emergency missions.

During the visit, a focused situation assessment was held with brigade commanders to review the division's war readiness and operational plans for various scenarios. Zamir emphasized that the lessons of October 7th necessitate ensuring such an event never happens again. He stated, "We must always be prepared, understand that there are blind spots we do not identify, and prepare for every scenario."

Zamir highlighted that the military's test is its readiness, competence, and operational pace, ensuring that orders are implemented down to the last outpost to prevent the enemy from surprising them. He also noted the ongoing "pursuit battle" against the terrorists involved in the October 7th attack, commending the Southern Command for successful interdiction operations and pledging continued determined action to complete the mission.

Addressing the security tensions amid the Knesset elections, Zamir confirmed that defenses have been strengthened and forces reinforced across all fronts, maintaining a high level of alertness. He acknowledged that enemies have suffered severe blows but continue to plan attacks. The IDF is operating proactively in all combat zones with a forward defense and counter-terrorism approach, aiming to remove threats before they materialize and to ensure democratic elections proceed without external interference.