Gallant: Iran, Hezbollah attacks may materialize; we need vigilance and readiness, not fear and panic

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says Israel has been bolstering its defenses in recent days amid an anticipated Iranian and Hezbollah attack on the country, as well as preparing potential attacks as a response, or preemptive actions if needed.

“We are in the days of vigilance and readiness, the threats from Tehran and Beirut may materialize and it is important to explain to everyone that readiness, preparedness, and vigilance are not synonyms for fear and panic,” says Gallant at a meeting of the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

“In recent days, we have been devoting our time both to strengthening defenses and to creating offensive options in response, and also as an initiative if required, anywhere and in any region, with the main goal being the protection of the citizens of the State of Israel,” he adds.

Also at the meeting, Gallant says he supports a hostage deal with Hamas, even if it is in multiple stages.

“It is our duty as decision-makers to strive to bring about the operational achievement, and… to create the conditions to return the hostages. The creation of the conditions comes through military pressure, and it can bring about a deal to [release] the hostages, even if it will be in more than one round,” he says.