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'A Game-Changing 24 Hours': How the IDF's Latest Move Brought Hostages Home

IDF Chief of Staff reveals: How Military Strategy Secured Arbel Yehud's Release

"Heightened Readiness Led to Significant Progress in Hostage Release and Arbel Yehud’s Return" says Chief of Staff. In a recent situational assessment, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi shared important updates following a tour of the Netzarim Corridor in the Gaza Strip.

Halevi during situational assessment in Gaza
photo: IDF Spokesperson Unit

Accompanied by key commanders, including the Commanding Officer of the Southern Command, Major General Yaron Finkelman, and the Commanding Officer of the 99th Division, Brigadier General Yoav Brunner, Halevi addressed the soldiers stationed in the area, emphasizing the positive results achieved over the past 24 hours.

According to Halevi, the increased level of readiness and vigilance had a profound impact, notably expediting the return of Arbel Yehud and facilitating an upcoming hostage release. He praised the soldiers’ efforts, stating, "This heightened readiness over the past 24 hours has led to a very, very significant improvement—both in another upcoming hostage release and in expediting the return of Arbel Yehud, where they tried to pull a trick on us."

The Chief of Staff urged soldiers to remain vigilant, emphasizing that any moment could present a threat. He noted that even if an offensive action was unlikely, the assumption should always be that an attempt could be made. "You must always assume that someone might try to carry out some kind of offensive action here. That’s why enforcement is extremely strong," Halevi remarked.

Highlighting the importance of the mission, Halevi assured the troops that the military’s efforts were critical in bringing home hostages, particularly the upcoming release of female captives. "We are enabling this transition to bring back female hostages—so far, male hostages will be returned in the coming days. This is of critical importance," he added.

Concluding his message, Halevi reinforced the need for constant vigilance, intelligence gathering, and preparation for any potential challenges ahead. "Every quiet day that passes increases our chances of bringing back more hostages," he said, expressing confidence in the soldiers’ ability to handle future developments. "I trust you—just as you fought with skill and bravery, you will know how to make the best decisions."

In Halevi’s view, the situation is under control, and the IDF remains prepared for whatever may come next even if that means returning to military operations in Gaza to ensure all the hostages return home.

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