IDF chief says military pressure on Hamas creating ‘better conditions’ for hostage deal

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi says military pressure on Hamas is creating “better conditions” for the release of hostages held by the terror group in the Gaza Strip, and that such pressure will continue.

During a visit to the Gaza Strip today, Halevi tells troops they are doing a “great job, it really is very impressive.” But he adds that “the road is still long.”

“We are determined to follow this road and really bring maximal achievements. Also to dismantle Hamas — militarily and governmentally — also to bring security around the region, to the communities in the [area surrounding Gaza], and also to return the hostages,” Halevi says.

“All these things work together… the maneuver also creates better conditions for the return of the hostages. It deals blows to Hamas, it creates pressure, and we will continue this pressure,” he adds.