Facing threats across multiple fronts, the Israel Defense Forces is preparing for a yearlong campaign of extended combat operations throughout 2025. According to a senior military official, the upcoming phase will focus heavily on Gaza, Iran’s regional influence, and maintaining freedom of action in Lebanon and Syria. “This is not a short war—it’s a multi-theater conflict, and we are committed to achieving its core objectives: bringing the hostages home and toppling the Hamas regime,” the source said.
Gaza: Expanded Operations and Reserve Call-Up
Despite significant gains—over 400 terrorists neutralized and thousands of targets destroyed—Hamas remains defiant. The IDF is preparing for an expanded ground operation, dubbed “Operation Valor and Sword”, which will require the re-enlistment of thousands of reservists. Israel’s military is currently short 10,000 troops, including 7,000 front-line fighters, prompting an urgent restructuring of force readiness.
“The return of the hostages remains our top moral obligation. But operationally, defeating Hamas is non-negotiable,” said the official.
Lebanon: Maintaining Deterrence After November Agreements
Since the November 2024 understandings with Hezbollah, the IDF has conducted over 350 strikes in southern Lebanon and eliminated more than 140 terrorists, asserting its right to operate freely despite the ceasefire framework. Operation “Northern Arrows” established buffer zones and advanced IDF outposts along the border to defend northern communities and secure critical terrain.
Syria: Preventing Iranian Entrenchment
In Syria, the IDF continues to target strategic threats and block Iranian proxy buildup. Nine IDF outposts stretching from the Golan Heights to Mount Hermon serve as a forward security belt, monitoring for weapons smuggling and Iranian-backed militias.
“We are neutralizing remnants of the Assad regime’s arsenal to prevent it from falling into hostile hands,” the source stated.
West Bank: Notable Drop in Terror Alerts
In Judea and Samaria, the IDF reports a significant decline in terrorist activity and alerts. Cooperation with Shin Bet has led to the arrest or elimination of over 100 terrorists since the launch of Operation Iron Shield. The recent Ramadan season was notably calm compared to previous years.
Structural Goals: More Brigades, More Missiles, More Inclusion
Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir is pursuing a force expansion plan that includes: a fourth armored tank division, an additional infantry brigade, and reinstating a religious (Haredi) armored reconnaissance battalion. The IDF also plans to enhance missile defense capabilities and launch a new multi-year strategic plan in the second half of 2025.
Recruitment Challenge: “No Army Without Enlistment”
The military is pushing for increased Haredi enlistment, framing it as a critical operational necessity, not just a societal goal.
“Granting sweeping exemptions threatens the IDF’s very ability to function. Without equal contribution, the system breaks,” said the official.
The government is considering legislation and financial support programs for soldiers and their families, including under the new “People Program” which will invest hundreds of millions of shekels in active-duty and reserve support.
October 7 Investigations Continue
Retired Maj. Gen. Sammy Turgeman is leading a review team evaluating military failures and lessons from the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The Chief of Staff will determine final conclusions and implementation.
“These investigations are key to restoring the public’s trust and rebuilding the army,” the official stated.
Netanyahu: “We Continue to Build the Homeland—In Fire and Water”
Speaking at the International Bible Quiz, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s war goals: “We’ve brought back 147 hostages—196 in total. But we have more to return. Our supreme mission remains: complete victory and bringing everyone home. We continue to build our homeland—in fire and in water. The enemy will fall.”
