In a press conference on December 5, 2023, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that approximately half of Hamas's battalion commanders in Gaza have been killed, although he did not disclose specific numbers. The announcement comes in the midst of escalating tensions in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Netanyahu highlighted the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) achievements in demilitarizing Gaza, including the return of 110 hostages. He urged noncombatants in Gaza to evacuate conflict areas. Netanyahu reiterated the commitment to eradicating Hamas, stating that about half of the leaders of the 24 battalions in Gaza have been killed. Additionally, he disclosed the discovery of a tunnel sheltering five top Hamas officials.

The conflict's toll includes a reported death toll of over 15,000 Palestinians and the displacement of more than three-fourths of Gaza's 2.3 million residents. Netanyahu emphasized the need for ongoing security control over Gaza after the war.

Israeli forces focus on Khan Younis, the last major bastion of militants in southern Gaza. Despite international calls to halt the campaign, Israeli leaders, including Netanyahu, remain determined to press on until Hamas is eradicated. Netanyahu also accused international organizations of ignoring allegations of rape by Hamas fighters during a previous incursion.