Gallant: Returning Fire will Lead to Progress in the Return of Abductees

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant met today (Sunday) with families of abductees and pointed out to them that the resumption of fighting will lead to further progress in the return of abductees.

Also present at the meeting between the parties was Yelena Trupanov of Nir Oz who was released from Hamas captivity and her son Sasha is still being held in Gaza. Minister Gallant emphasized to them his commitment to the return of the abductees, and detailed to the family members how Hamas violated the outline agreed upon to return all the women and children.

"As the military activity progresses - the pressure on Hamas increases"

Gallant continued to emphasize the goals of the fighting and the continued efforts to return the abductees. "For the past two months, I have only been concerned with achieving the goals of the war, chief among them: the dismantling of the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas and the return of the abductees. There is a close connection between the two goals. Every day is important for us. As the military activity progresses - the pressure on Hamas increases and so does the chance of returning more abductees."

According to the Minister of Defense, "If we agreed to discuss additional groups of abductees before Hamas completed its commitment to return all women and children, it would mean giving up on those who have not yet returned." The return of fire will lead to further progress in the return of abductees. On behalf of the entire security system I tell you that we are doing everything we can with full commitment."

He also noted that "in all military activity, the considerations of the abductees are taken into account. We are working in all ways, covert and overt, to free the abductees. Only if we continue to fight with all our strength - more options will open up to us."