Defense Minister Yoav Galant met Sunday evening with a group of family members of the abductees, including Yelena Trofanov – a resident of Nir Oz who was released from Hamas captivity last week, and whose son Sasha is still being held by the terrorist organization.
During the meeting, Galant stressed to the families that he was committed to the return of their loved ones, and detailed how Hamas had violated the agreed framework for the return of all women and children, in addition to answering their questions.
Galant shaking Tropanov's hand, tonight, photo: Ariel Hermoni - Ministry of Defense
"In the past two months, I have been dealing only with achieving the goals of the war, first and foremost dismantling Hamas' military and governmental capabilities and returning the hostages," the minister told them. "There is a close connection between the two goals. Every day is important for us, so when military activity progresses, the pressure on Hamas increases, as does the chance of returning more hostages."
He added: "If we had agreed to discuss additional groups of abductees before Hamas completed its commitment to return all women and children, it would mean giving up those who have not yet returned. The return of fire will lead to further progress in the return of hostages. On behalf of the entire defense establishment, I tell you that we are doing everything we can with full commitment."
Galant concluded by saying, "In all military activity, the considerations of the abductees are taken into account. We are working in all ways, secret and overt, to free them. Only if we continue to fight with full force will more options open up for us."
Defense Minister Galant at the meeting, tonight // Photo: Ariel Hermoni - Ministry of Defense
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