Gallant to Austin: Hamas hard line means no choice but to operate in Rafah

Defense Minister Gallant spoke last night (between Sunday and Monday) with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, telling him that the Hamas refusal of any deal has forced Israel to operate in Rafah due to "the lack of an alternative."

As Gallant told Austin "Hamas continues to conduct attacks on the State of Israel and its citizens, while also indicating a lack of seriousness in regard to the frameworks that were submitted for the release of hostages.

"The State of Israel will not tolerate the ongoing presence of terrorist frameworks bordering its communities, and is committed to achieving the goals of the war - the destruction of Hamas as a military and governing authority, and the return of 132 hostages."

Gallant then thanked Austin for his leadership and "highlighted the important role of the United States as it relates to the hostage issue and regional parties involved."