IDF spokesperson: Hamas is ‘battered and bruised guerrilla organization’

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

IDF troops operate in the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City, in a handout photo issued on August 15, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)
IDF troops operate in the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City, in a handout photo issued on August 15, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)

Hamas is a “battered and bruised guerrilla organization” following the IDF’s latest offensive in the Gaza Strip, IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin says in a press conference.

The remarks come as the IDF calls up tens of thousands of reservists for a planned major offensive in Gaza City,

“We will deepen the blows to Hamas in Gaza City, a terror stronghold… We will deepen the blows to the terror infrastructure above and below ground, and disconnect the reliance of the population on Hamas,” he says.

Defrin says the IDF “is not waiting” and has already begun preliminary operations in Gaza City, ahead of the offensive aimed at capturing the city.

“IDF troops are already taking control of the outskirts of Gaza City,” he says.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.