After six days of war, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi admitted oversights failed to stop the onslaught by Hamas last Saturday. The body count now exceeds 1300. About 200 more have been forced into captivity in Gaza.

Speaking from southern Israel, Halevi said, “The security of our nation and its people is the primary responsibility of the IDF. We faltered in our duties on that particular Saturday near the Gaza Strip. Although we will take measures to understand and rectify our shortcomings, our present focus is on the conflict at hand.”

He strongly reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to bringing back the captives taken by Hamas and affiliated entities. “In the aftermath of a heinous surprise attack by Hamas, where they exhibited cruelty in killing our children and families, it’s essential to understand that we are up against brutal adversaries.”

Attributing the origin of this atrocious assault to Yahya Sinwar, the leader of the Gaza Strip, Halevi asserted, “Given that Sinwar spearheaded this assault, he and his entire administrative hierarchy are marked for retribution. We will be relentless in our pursuit, ensuring they pay for their actions.”

Expressing concern over the estimated 200 Israeli and foreign hostages in the hands of the extremist group, the IDF Chief assured, “Every possible measure will be taken to ensure the safe return of the hostages.”

Halevi emphasized the intensity of Israel’s response, stating, “Our retaliation has been significant, with numerous terrorists and their leaders being neutralized and their infrastructure being obliterated.”

He concluded with a stern warning: “The landscape of Gaza will undergo a transformation after this.”