Israel - August 31, 2025 IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi conducted a situational assessment today at Northern Command with senior commanders, reviewing operational and intelligence updates as well as plans for upcoming actions. Halevi emphasized that the IDF operates offensively and proactively across all arenas, citing the recent strike on Hamas senior figure Abu Obeida in Gaza. He added that while much of Hamas leadership has been eliminated, the IDF will also pursue those operating abroad. The Chief of Staff highlighted continued efforts to return hostages—both living and deceased—noting the recent recovery of the bodies of Idan Shtivi and Ilan Weiss. He also underscored the importance of ensuring security for northern residents as schools reopen for the first time since the war began, crediting IDF achievements for making this possible. Halevi praised the readiness of reserve forces preparing to deepen operations in Gaza City and commended the Northern Command for its operational results.