Gallant: Hostage rescue op ‘one of the most heroic and extraordinary operations’ I’ve seen in 47 years

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says the operation to rescue four hostages from the Gaza Strip was “one of the most heroic and extraordinary operations I have witnessed over the course of 47 years serving in Israel’s defense establishment.”

“IDF, Shin Bet, and Yamam, as well as the forces who supported [those in the field] have conducted an unprecedented operation – daring in nature, planned brilliantly, and executed in an extraordinary fashion. The various security agencies cooperated closely — the IDF, Shin Bet, and Yamam — acting as one single unit,” he says in a statement, thanking all those involved.

“I would especially like to express my appreciation to the IDF Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, who is leading the the military. I would like to express my appreciation to the head of the Shin Bet and to the commander of Yamam for their leadership in these complex conditions,” he says, adding that the country has people they can count on and reasons to be proud.

He praises the military chief for acting for the benefit of the country, even though some politicians have criticized him over the handling of the war.

“This morning not only did we have a successful operation, but also an opportunity to fulfill the goals of this war,” he states.