President Isaac Herzog visited the Gaza Strip for the first time since October 7. During the visit, he spoke with reserve soldiers from Battalion 969, and against the backdrop of the draft exemption controversy, he said, "It's important for me to reflect the enormous burden on you. I want everyone to get under the stretcher." He also addressed the efforts to return the hostages: "You are fighting to change reality and bring back our hostages. There are intensive negotiations, thanks to your activities and thanks to everyone fighting in Gaza - you will bring our hostages back."