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IDF Chief Eyal Zamir Holds First Operational Forum, Vows Fight Against Hamas Until All Hostages Are Home

The high-level gathering launched a learning process to recalibrate operations for 2026 under new leadership.

Overview

  • Zamir convened operational commanders from the rank of lieutenant colonel and above for his first such conference since becoming chief of staff.
  • Senior leaders from the Operations Directorate, the Research Division and Southern Command delivered operational and intelligence briefings spanning all active arenas.
  • The agenda included a review of Operation Rising Lion and a summary of two years of Southern Command activity in the Gaza Strip.
  • Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed the forum, and a panel featured returned hostages Emily Damari and Liri Albag alongside bereaved family members Ela Haimi and Rabbi Doron Perez.
  • The IDF framed the meeting as the kickoff to a 2026 learning process focused on strengthening institutional foundations and support for personnel, with a similar forum for reservist commanders planned next week.