In a televised evening update on Wednesday, IDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin delivered a detailed operational overview of the Israel Defense Forces’ ongoing campaign across multiple fronts, with a particular focus on the expanding offensive in Gaza under Operation Oz V’Herev (Might and Sword).
“In recent days, we have progressed to the next stage of the operation, which serves the goals of the war—the return of the hostages and the destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities,” Defrin announced.
Gaza: Over 600 Targets Struck, 250 Terrorists Eliminated
Defrin stated that the operation began with a combined air and ground assault, targeting more than 60 terrorist sites in northern and southern Gaza to weaken Hamas capabilities and prepare for a deeper ground maneuver. In the south, the IDF has expanded its activities to encircle and segment the Rafah area, while in northern Gaza, forces are “raiding terror targets, clearing the area, and destroying infrastructure.”
Since resuming large-scale operations in Gaza, Israeli forces have struck over 600 targets and eliminated more than 250 terrorists, including 12 senior Hamas operatives. All were involved in the October 7 massacre.
“We are operating according to a gradual plan with varying intensities. As the Chief of Staff said yesterday during his visit to the fighters in Gaza—‘the only thing that can stop us from continuing is the release of our hostages.’”
Syria, Lebanon, Judea and Samaria: Multi-Front Readiness
On the Syrian front, IDF forces operated overnight in southern Syria, locating and destroying weapons and eliminating hostile elements with ground and air strikes, aimed at preventing the entrenchment of enemy forces threatening northern Israel.
In Lebanon, Defrin emphasized that Israel continues to enforce the ceasefire agreement, holding the Lebanese state responsible for all activity emanating from its territory.
In Judea and Samaria, the IDF continues proactive operations, particularly in northern Samaria, to disrupt terrorist plots. Defrin credited these actions with directly preventing attacks, particularly during the sensitive period of Ramadan.
Internal Discipline and Command Conduct
Defrin also addressed recent incidents involving IDF troops that “did not align with what is expected of Israeli soldiers.” Central Command reviewed these cases, and action has been taken. He reaffirmed the importance of operational discipline and IDF values, referencing remarks made by Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir during his recent field visit.
“We will not tolerate situations where soldiers act with force that does not align with IDF values.”
A Salute to the Reservists
Defrin praised Israel’s reservists—many of whom have served in combat roles for over a year and a half—as the backbone of the IDF’s operational force. He pledged that the IDF, under the Chief of Staff’s directive, is advancing a new support and compensation framework led by the Deputy Chief of Staff to assist those carrying the burden of service.
Q&A Highlights
During the Q&A portion, Defrin was asked about:
- Iran: He did not confirm any planned Israeli participation in strikes but noted that the IDF “routinely monitors threats and developments and prepares accordingly.”
- Turkey in Syria: He emphasized that the IDF is operating to prevent the buildup of hostile forces and armament in Syria, maintaining a security buffer for northern Israeli residents.
- Holiday security: With Passover approaching, Defrin stated that the IDF remains on high alert to allow Israelis to celebrate safely, even as operations in Gaza continue.
- Officer promotions: On reports surrounding Col. Efraim Avni, Defrin reiterated that promotions are handled professionally, and the IDF is in the process of applying lessons from the October 7 failures.
- Rocket fire from Gaza: Defrin confirmed the war is ongoing and stated, “The IDF is operating with force using new methods in new locations and varying intensities to protect Israeli civilians and prevent rocket fire.”
Conclusion
Defrin closed by reaffirming the IDF’s unwavering focus: the return of all 59 hostages—both living and deceased—remains the central objective, alongside the full dismantling of Hamas’s military and political control.
“We will not rest until they are brought home. Their families have waited long enough.”
