While the IDF is aware of claims that the army is "stalling" in the Gaza Strip these days, a senior officer in the Southern Command noted that "it would be a shame to stop now," as during the past month soldiers continue to dismantle Hamas assets and are trying to reach as many hostages as possible. The IDF emphasized that fighting continues with greater intensity, which is reflected in the elimination of Hamas senior officials and destruction of its terror infrastructure, as well as in the recent recovery of three hostages' bodies that were returned for burial in Israel.

