In the stated operational order of priorities presented to commanders ahead of today’s huge IDF ground operation in Gaza, the objective "Concentration and movement of the population," appears before "Return of the hostages."
Which is in last place…
https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-05-16/ty-article/.premium/idf-orders-gazans-to-move-south-ahead-of-renewed-expansion-of-ground-offensive/00000196-da10-d048-a7d7-da76726a0000?utm_source=App_Share&utm_medium=iOS_Native
Which is in last place…
https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-05-16/ty-article/.premium/idf-orders-gazans-to-move-south-ahead-of-renewed-expansion-of-ground-offensive/00000196-da10-d048-a7d7-da76726a0000?utm_source=App_Share&utm_medium=iOS_Native
Comments
Order of priorities doesn't necessarily mean order of importance, certainly not operationally and in terms of timing.
And by the way, the IDF statement puts the return of the hostages before the defeat of Hamas.