IDF spokesman says there is ‘significant progress’ in release of hostages tonight

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says there is “significant progress” in the efforts to release the hostages from the Gaza Strip tonight, following delays by Hamas.

“The effort to return the hostages is our moral and ethical duty. We are determined to fulfill this in any way,” Hagari says in an evening press conference. “The effort tonight is progressing and we will inform the families and the public when things happen. Patience is required.”

“There is significant progress,” he adds.

Hagari says “nothing is final until it actually happens,” as Israel is indirectly negotiating with an “evil terror group.”

“We will return the hostages in any way, through the deal, or through the next stages of the war,” he says in response to a question. “If the agreement is not fulfilled, we will go back to fighting.”