Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, the new IDF Chief of Staff, stated during a meeting with local council heads from Gaza border communities that they are preparing to return to fighting. He emphasized the need to defeat Hamas and declared that the hostages are their top priority. Zamir acknowledged the mistakes of the past and expressed determination to ensure the IDF's success in its missions. He also outlined the vision for the next stage in the struggle against Israel's enemies. The IDF Spokesperson's Office stated that the Chief of Staff emphasized the commitment to regional security, eliminating Hamas, and returning the hostages.