IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi spoke to Golani Brigade commanders ahead of an expected ground incursion into Gaza.
"We will enter the Gaza Strip, we will enter for an operational, professional task - to destroy Hamas' operatives, Hamas' infrastructure, and we will remember in our minds the pictures and the scenes and those who were killed on Shabbat two weeks ago," Halevi said.
He warned, "Gaza is complex, Gaza is crowded; the enemy is preparing a great many things for us, but we are also preparing things for him as well. We are with you, we are coordinating with you - all of the IDF's abilities.
"With this thought, be courageous. Be very determined, and place great faith in your soldiers. This spirit will bring victory; your professionalism will decide the result.
"I very much believe in you, and I am very very proud of you. This is pride, this is strength - withthis strength, you will win."