Israel Defense Minister Claims 60 Percent of Hamas Fighters Neutralized in Gaza War

In a recent statement to parliament, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared that 60 percent of Hamas fighters had been either killed or wounded since the militant group’s attacks on October 7. Gallant's assertion comes amid ongoing intense military operations in Gaza and highlights Israel's determination to meet its war objectives: the eradication of Hamas and the return of all hostages from Gaza.

Speaking before parliament, Gallant praised the Israeli soldiers for their dedication, sacrifice, and success, noting that the achievements in the conflict were significant. “We have eliminated or wounded 60 percent of the Hamas terrorists,” Gallant stated, adding that the majority of the Palestinian group's 24 battalions had been dismantled. However, he did not provide specific casualty figures, and the Israeli military did not have immediate statistics to support the claim.

The conflict, which began with Hamas's coordinated attacks on southern Israel, resulted in the deaths of 1,195 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages. As of Gallant's latest update, 116 hostages remain in Gaza, with 42 reported dead according to military sources.

In response to the October 7 attacks, Israel has launched significant offensives in Gaza City to the north and around Rafah and Khan Yunis to the south. These operations have led to the deaths of at least 38,295 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry, with a large proportion of the casualties being civilians.

Despite widespread international criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, many countries have expressed solidarity with Israel following the October 7 attacks. Gallant emphasized Israel's resolve to continue its military efforts until its objectives are met. “We have returned half of the hostages and we are determined to return the rest,” he said. “The security establishment, and myself heading it, are determined to achieve the goals of the war and complete them.”

Israel is also engaging with international mediators to negotiate conditions for a truce with Hamas. While the path to peace remains fraught with challenges, the Israeli government maintains its stance on ensuring the security of its citizens and the complete dismantling of Hamas's operational capabilities.