Interview/ 'It will be a long operation': IDF spokesperson divulges critical updates on Israel-Hamas war

In an exclusive conversation with Republic on Tuesday, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Major Libby Weiss confirmed a long operation against Hamas, stating that “we have me significant progress in securing border area with Gaza.” “I think it's very important to emphasize that we are still very much within fighting at beginning of what we anticipate will be a long operation tour to secure Israel's safety.”

Providing deep insights into IDF's intensive counterterrorism operations, she said: “It is a very dynamic situation, actively monitored, and efforts are ongoing to eliminate any remaining Hamas terrorists within Israeli territory." Israel has evacuated thousands of Israeli civilians amid ongoing war.

REPUBLIC EXCLUSIVE 

"We have evacuated thousands of Israeli civilians from border areas. We are ensuring that Hamas does not spre terror anymore. re is a close relationship between Hamas and Iran. I don't want to say anything beyond that..." asserts IDF Spokesperson… pic.twitter.com/C8v5SqBNqw

— Republic (@republic)

dressing queries about Israeli troop movements, Major Weiss clarified, " current focus is on securing Israeli territory. Retaliatory airstrikes continue, but re is no immediate plan for a ground invasion into Gaza. We remain committed to protecting civilians and preventing furr acts of terror."

After Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, PM Benjamin Netanyahu's government ordered relentless airstrikes on Gaza strip, killing over 770 people. death toll on both sides of fence has surpassed 2000. 

Israel aims to minimize threats

Major Weiss detailed successful targeting of key Hamas assets, stating, "We have been striking intelligence chiefs and strategic locations used for launching attacks. Our approach is strategic, aiming to neutralize se sites and minimize threats to Israel and its civilians."

In an exclusive revelation, IDF) spokesperson acknowledged historical ties between Iran and Hamas, emphasising financial support and resources. She stated, “While concrete evidence is lacking for Iran's involvement in current conflict, re is an enduring relationship between two entities.”

Discussing concerns on norrn border, Major Weiss issued a solemn warning, saying, “We've sent a clear message to terror organizations, including Hezbollah. Incidents of infiltration by Palestinian Islamic Jih members from Lebanon highlight IDF's vigilance against any external interference.”

She dressed hostage situation, revealing, “Dozens of Israelis have been taken captive. Urging Hamas to release m immediately, I emphasize humanitarian aspect, highlighting indiscriminate targeting of civilians, including children and elderly.”

Expressing concern for Indian diaspora in Israel, Major Weiss assured Republic, “Efforts are being me at all levels to ensure ir safety. We prioritize dealing with missing individuals and are committed to providing updates to concerned families.”