IDF chief hails troops ahead of hostage release

In a missive to troops ahead of the release of the hostages held by Hamas, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir says he is “proud to lead the IDF at this fateful hour.”

“IDF soldiers and commanders, I met you, again and again, in all the days of combat. I saw the burning flame in you, the eyes shining beyond the veil of fatigue, the unceasing belief in the righteousness of the path, the deep desire to protect the home and to bring the hostages back to their homes,” Zamir writes.

“I salute you, generation of the war. I salute each and every one of you. I am proud of the privilege to lead the IDF at this fateful hour. In my salute, I offer you the deep thanks and appreciation of an entire nation,” he adds.