IDF Talking Points
January 07, 2009
IDF soldiers are fighting to defend our basic rights and values. They are facing those who openly call for the destruction of the State of Israel. The modern battlefield extends beyond the war-front and into our hearts and minds. The IDF has prepared some information regarding current events so you can better understand their actions.
Download Full IDF Newsletter (pdf)
At a Glance:
Operation Cast Lead: Ground Operation
* The IDF began the ground operation in the Gaza Strip on January 3rd. The IDF does not intend to occupy the Gaza Strip; its' goal is solely to weaken Hamas's ability to commit terror attacks against Israeli civilians.
* Hamas is intentionally operating from densely populated areas, using civilians as human shields, and disguising Hamas members as civilians. The IDF is committed to minimizing harm to the civilians of the Gaza Strip. In order to achieve this goal, the IDF constantly requests of civilians that they avoid locations from which Hamas is operating.
* The IDF is not only concerned with the safety of civilians in the Gaza Strip; we are ensuring that humanitarian aid is transferred to civilians in the Gaza Strip. It is the responsibility of Hamas to make certain that the aid is distributed to those who need it.
Humanitarian Aid to Gaza
* Since the beginning of the operation over 391 truckloads of aid carrying more than 6500 tons of aid (food, medicine and medical supplies)
* Erez Crossing has been opened in limited capacity to allow patients in need of emergency care: 12 urgent medical cases absorbed via Erez, 2 or which were children
* World Food Program (31/12/08): Announced it won't ship any more food to Gaza, because warehouses are full.
Letter from the Chief of the General Staff to the Soldiers
IDF combat soldiers and their commanders,
Many eyes, throughout the country, look upon you today in pride and in hope.
I know you, the strength of your spirit and your devotion. I have faith in you and your abilities, and I am proud for the opportunity bestowed upon me to command you in this hour.
We will strike the enemy with a decisive blow, and we will reclaim safety for the citizens of the South.
Download Full IDF Newsletter (pdf)