IDF spokesperson Ephraim Defrin responded to ynet's question regarding the declared achievements of Operation "Gideon's Chariots" amid the planned capture of Gaza City, saying that "the operation met its objectives and even beyond. Hamas has nowhere to return to." Defrin noted that "more than 2,000 terrorists were eliminated, which created the conditions for entering Gaza City and focusing efforts to deepen the impact." On the criterion for Hamas's defeat, he said: "Hamas has been defeated in all places where the IDF operated. It no longer functions as a terror army as before, but as a guerrilla force. What would be considered a defeat? Hamas will not control Gaza the day after, that's the main criterion."