Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to establish three Nahal outposts in northern Gaza, describing the move as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen Israel’s security presence in the area. Katz made the remarks during a tour of northern Gaza with senior IDF commanders, according to a report in Channel 14.

During the visit, Katz said the IDF now controls approximately 65% of the Gaza Strip, while the military estimates that about 70,000 Hamas terrorists have been eliminated or neutralized since the war began.

Asked about the destruction across Gaza, Katz replied: “I feel good. Thank G-d. This is all the result of a deliberate policy aimed at removing threats. Instead of the raid method—going in and out—the IDF is inside, the terrorists are outside, and the houses are destroyed.”

The tour was attended by Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. Yaniv Assor, and other field commanders.

Katz said he intends to establish three Nahal outposts in areas that were formerly part of northern Gaza, calling the move essential for Israel’s security. “This will improve the hold and defense of the communities. It’s something that’s needed at the right time,” he said.

During the visit, Division 99 Commander Brig. Gen. Yoav Bruner presented the military’s updated control map, including security zones designed to prevent Hamas from reestablishing itself. Assor added, “They’re feeling hunted, and we need to keep pressing on their necks. Just recently, in Operation Roaring Lion, we carried out 300 thwarting operations.”

The delegation also toured a major Hamas tunnel uncovered by the IDF. Military officials said the tunnel contained water infrastructure connected to civilian homes, bathrooms, and logistical storage areas. Assor told Katz the tunnel reached all the way to Nahal Oz and “was supposed to penetrate right into the community.”

Concluding the visit, Katz said Israel’s approach extends beyond Gaza. “In Syria, in Lebanon, in Gaza, in Iran and in Yemen—facing enemies, we don’t contain, don’t wait, and don’t fold. Exactly the opposite of what happened until now.”

Deputy Chief of Staff Yadai added, “I don’t know how to describe this other than victory. There’s absolute freedom of operation here.” Soldiers who met with Katz also expressed confidence, saying, “If there’s attrition—there’s determination times 200, and that’s the most important thing.”

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