Class is Now in Session
Preparing commanders for the next stage of the war.
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Since Friday, we’ve been in an operational pause in Gaza.
Like I said yesterday, we’re still at war with Hamas, and this will continue until Hamas is dismantled and our hostages are home.
But what are we doing during this operational pause?
A few days ago, Chief of the General Staff LTG Herzi Halevi mentioned that the IDF was going to use the pause to “study, to better prepare our abilities and also to rest a little.”
In today’s newsletter, I want to share some details regarding a high-ranking forum that took place on Monday.
One does not plan and then try to make circumstances fit those plans.
One tries to make plans fit the circumstances.
George S. Patton
This operational forum was convened by the IDF’s Southern Command, led by Major General Yaron Finkelman. The forum was attended by senior division commanders (brigadier generals) and brigade commanders (colonels).
The purpose of the forum was to review the main lessons learned during the first stages of the fighting and prepare for the continuation of kinetic activities in Gaza.
Maj. Gen. Finkelman at the commander’s forum
The senior IDF commanders in attendance included:
Head of the Operations Directorate, Major General Oded Basiuk
Commanding Officer of the Ground Forces, Major General Tamir Yadai
Commander of the Israeli Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar
The discussion focused on combat techniques, operational discipline, IDF operations, and insights into enemy activity.
There was also a session on drawing lessons from fire operations with Israeli Air Force squadron commanders.
The efforts to provide tactical insights and lessons were led by Brigadier General Guy Levy, from the Southern Command.
I can’t stress how important these forums and training sessions are for the next phase of the war.
The intelligence we’ve gained through intense combat in Gaza must reach our commanders and soldiers in the field. This forum is just one part of our effort to apply the lessons we’ve learned to accomplish our mission and defeat Hamas.
Operational Updates
Last night, 12 more hostages - including 10 Israelis and 2 Thai nationals - were released. We share in the joy and relief of their families and loved ones. We will not rest until we bring ALL of our people home.
Quote of the Day
“Our emotions range from joy and excitement when seeing the captives return and reunite with their families to pain and sadness, and even horror sometimes, in view of the difficult stories that we hear and the injuries that we treat — things we thought belonged to a different era in history.”
- Prof. Itai Pessach, director of the Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital at Sheba
(Source)
What I’m Reading
Held Hostage by Hamas: How Two Girls Survived Captivity in Gaza - Wall Street Journal
Thank you for the update. Reassuring that the mission is still on course to cleanse Hamas from Gaza
Fascinating. I bet forces must have gained so much insight on combat given the key enemy tactic is to stay hidden and use surprise to an advantage. More than most wars, with this the whole propaganda machinery brings psyops and comms teams right to the forefront. I’m sure half of the pro-Hammas commentary on social media is driven by bots.