President Herzog makes inaugural visit to reservists in Gaza

“It is clear that everything you do is aimed at protecting the citizens of Israel, protecting the communities in the Gaza envelope, and protecting the entire country,” Herzog said.

President Isaac Herzog visited IDF soldiers inside Gaza for the first time on Wednesday.

The president was accompanied by Southern Command chief Maj.-Gen. Yaniv Asor, along with several additional commanders, briefed the president on the operational situation in the sector.

“When I hear and see you firsthand, it is clear that everything you do is aimed at protecting the citizens of Israel, protecting the communities in the Gaza envelope, and protecting the entire country,” Herzog told the reserve soldiers of Battalion 969.

“You left work, family, and routine, and came without hesitation because you knew there is no substitute for your presence. It is also important for me to reflect on the enormous burden on the reservists. We must understand that at this moment, the people of Israel must be united, and never give up for a moment.”

The Post visited Battalion 969 in northern Gaza

The Jerusalem Post visited Battalion 969, led by Lt.-Col. (res.) T, on Thursday.

The Post was visiting a new secret IDF position in northern Gaza, built by the battalion and dubbed “Israela,” which is designed both to project power and serve as an additional forward defense line to prevent any potential invasion from getting anywhere near residential Israel.

The position, along with two other nearby positions, gives a unique strategic high-ground view of Beit Hanun, Beit Lahiya, Jabalya, and Gaza City in the distance.