Gallant tells Austin Gaza operations have created ‘conditions necessary’ for hostage deal

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant tells his American counterpart, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, that IDF operations in the Gaza Strip have “led to the conditions necessary” for a hostage deal with the Hamas terror group.

In their overnight call, Gallant provided Austin with an assessment of the IDF’s ongoing operations in the Gaza Strip.

“Gallant detailed the precise operation targeting Hamas military leader Muhammed Deif, referred to as the ‘Osama bin Laden of Gaza,'” his office says.

The Defense Ministry says that Gallant “emphasized that IDF operations in Gaza have led to the conditions necessary to achieve an agreement for the return of hostages, which is the highest moral imperative at this time.”

The two also discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and according to the ministry, Gallant told Austin of plans to build a field hospital along the Gaza border to treat sick Palestinian children.

Also according to the Israeli readout, Gallant “emphasized Israel’s determination to ensure the safe return of its northern communities to their homes,” amid daily attacks by Hezbollah, “whether it be via agreement or other means.”

Gallant and Austin also discussed “topics raised by the strategic consultative group that is meeting in the United States to further strengthen joint defense cooperation in the face of Iranian aggression,” the ministry adds.