Israel’s top general tells waiting troops they are ready for Gaza invasion

Israel’s top general has told soldiers they are “well prepared” for any military operations as the Jewish state continues massing troops and firepower near the Gaza Strip for an expected ground invasion.

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, told commanders of the 146th Division on Monday that the end goal is the “full dismantling” of Hamas following the Oct. 7 attack in which more than 1,400 mostly civilians were killed and hundreds were taken hostage.

“That is why we are striking and eliminating high-ranking commanders and members, destroying infrastructure, and acting with great determination,” Gen. Halevi said. “The path is a path of unrelenting attacks, damaging Hamas everywhere and in every way.”

As IDF troops remain on standby outside Gaza, the White House is pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to delay a ground invasion to allow time for hostage negotiations and for more U.S. military units to deploy to the region, according to The New York Times.

Gen. Halevi said the extra time will prove beneficial when the order is finally given to roll into Gaza.

“There are tactical, operative [and] strategic considerations that have provided additional time, and troops who have more time are better prepared. That is what we are doing now,” he said. “I am fully aware of the commitment shown in all of the IDF, both in regular and reserve duty, and it is displayed everywhere.”