Galant - "A deal with Hamas doesn't mean a ceasefire in the North"

The Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, stated that the IDF will keep fighting Hezbollah in Lebanon even if Israel agrees to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli media reports on Sunday.  

Earlier today, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant addressed IDF soldiers during an operational assessment on Mount Hermon in northern Israel.

"I provided explicit instructions to the troops in the southern and northern regions, which are distinct areas." During a visit to the Mount Hermon region, he tells troops that even if a hostage deal is reached in the south, it may not be relevant unless Hezbollah also reaches an agreement with Israel.

Gallant says that despite a ceasefire in Gaza, the fight continues here with necessary actions leading to results.

Gallant mentions that Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations in Lebanon have suffered the loss of 450 members due to IDF attacks, which includes 15 commanders at the brigade level and three at the division level. He describes it as a considerable and noticeable outcome.

The defence minister stated that these days are crucial and emphasized that our enemy only responds to strength.

"Events can occur. We have no desire for it." Gallant emphasizes that they are willing to face any situation, but also have plans in place in case they are attacked, harmed, or prevented from safely returning their citizens home.

During his address to the troops, Gallant emphasized, "These are critical days for us to demonstrate our strength against an adversary that understands only this language. Even if we achieve an agreement in the southern region, our fight will persist until we bring Hezbollah to a resolution and restore security for northern residents."

Also present were Brig.-Gen. Yair Palai, commander of the 210th Division, Lt.-Col. Oded Adani, deputy commander of the 188th Brigade, and battalion commanders currently active in the Hermon and Mount Dov areas.