Givati Brigade Withdraws from Gaza: “Ready for the Next Call to Duty”

Last night (Saturday), Col. Liron Batito, Commander of the Givati Brigade, penned an emotional letter to his soldiers, marking the conclusion of their 15-month combat mission in the Gaza Strip. The Givati Brigade, the first IDF unit to enter Gaza, led relentless battles against Hamas and achieved decisive victories in key strongholds.

“You Are the Victory Generation of Israel”

Col. Batito commended his soldiers for their bravery, resilience, and unity: “Purple Brigade, this is Command. You are the victory generation of Israel. You fought bravely in the fiercest battles, reached every corner of the Strip, and emerged victorious in every engagement. You dismantled the strongest Hamas strongholds—Shati, Khan Younis, Rafah, and Jabalia. Day after day, you proved that nothing can withstand the strength of the Purple Foxes.”

A Givati Battalion Officer, December 2024 | Photo: IDF Spokesperson

A Winning Unit

“Throughout the campaign, you demonstrated professionalism, camaraderie, and a fighting spirit that exemplify the values of the IDF. Thanks to your bond, dedication, and mental resilience, we built a winning unit together.”

Honoring the Fallen Heroes

The brigade paid a heavy price, losing 80 soldiers in battle. Batito wrote with deep emotion: “We do not forget the heavy price we have paid. These warriors – heroes of Israel – gave their lives for a better future for our children. We remember them with pride and deep sorrow, and their legacy will forever remain an integral part of the brigade.” He also extended wishes for a swift recovery to the wounded, praising their spirit and resilience.

A Moral Mission: Rescuing Hostages

Highlighting the moral commitment of the IDF, Batito wrote: “The rescue of hostages is the highest testament to our moral commitment to the citizens of Israel.  It reflects your unwavering fighting spirit and sense of duty. Let every Israeli mother and household know: we will not rest until every son and daughter returns home.”

Reuniting with Families

“In just a few moments, we will begin the process of withdrawing from Gaza and crossing the border back home. This chapter is ending but not closed. We’ll take a moment to breathe, embrace our families, and pray for the return of all hostages. We stand ready for the next call to duty. The Givati Brigade will strike and defeat the enemy anytime, anywhere, and on any mission. Dear fighters and commanders, I am proud of you in ways words cannot express. What has been forged in blood and fire will be remembered forever. The people of Israel live because of you!”

As the brigade prepared to leave Gaza and reunite with their families, Batito reminded them of their enduring commitment: “This chapter is ending but not closed. We’ll breathe, embrace our families, and pray for the return of all hostages. We stand ready for the next call to duty. The Givati Brigade will strike and defeat the enemy anytime, anywhere, and on any mission. Dear fighters and commanders, I am proud of you in ways words cannot express. What has been forged in blood and fire will be remembered forever. The people of Israel live because of you!”

A Biblical Call to Strength and Vigilance
The Givati Brigade’s journey reflects the biblical mandate to defend and protect. As Nehemiah rallied his people: “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes” – Nehemiah 4:14.

Col. Batito’s closing words echoed this spirit: “Purple Brigade, this is Command. Begin movement and disengagement from Gaza. Until the end, until the last hostage returns home, until victory!”

The Givati Brigade’s courage and sacrifice embody Israel’s resilience and unwavering determination to secure peace and protect its people.