Israeli Defense Minister: We Will Win and Bring Back the Hostages

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated in his speech on Thursday that his country will prevail in the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip and will return over 200 hostages held by this terrorist group. Gallant emphasized that this war is for the survival of Israel and that the country will use all necessary means to achieve victory. He mentioned that a ground assault on the Gaza Strip will take place soon and that Israel will target Hamas objectives from air, land, and sea. Gallant also referred to the deaths of over 1,400 people during the war, calling it a heavy price but necessary. The Israeli Defense Minister expressed his determination to do everything possible to return the hostages to their families, considering it his highest duty. The Israeli army announced on Thursday a nighttime ground assault on Hamas positions in the Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the previous night's operation was part of preparations for a ground attack on Hamas in Gaza and that more attacks are forthcoming. He said in a televised address to citizens on Wednesday evening, 'I will not provide further details about the timing, manner, or number of attacks.' The Israeli army shared a video on social media platform X showing the movement of armored vehicles and attacks on Hamas positions. The Israeli army stated, 'Tanks and infantry targeted terrorist cells, infrastructure, and anti-tank missile launch sites.' The United States, the European Union, and Japan have designated the Hamas militia, which is supported by the Islamic Republic, as a terrorist organization. Conflicts in the Middle East; the U.S. is monitoring movements at its borders. Reuters: Lebanon has no military capacity left to fight Israel. Fact-checking | Russian Foreign Minister's claim: The Islamic Republic is a 'responsible peacekeeper' in the region. Israeli envoy in Taiwan: China's response to Hamas attacks is 'concerning.' Israel: Reconstruction of the south of the country after the Hamas attack will take years. Biden expressed concern about the situation of Palestinian civilians in the West Bank.