Benny Gantz claims: This is the number of hostages who were killed in captivity

Chairman of the National Camp, former minister Benny Gantz, addressed today (Sunday) at the "Israel Hayom" Security Conference the issue of the hostages and Israel's security challenges in the post-October 7 war era. In an interview with military commentator Yoav Limor, Gantz said, "The return of the hostages is at the core of the values of the State of Israel, it is the most important thing." "If it was possible to make an agreement in Lebanon, it could also be done with the most fragmented enemy." Gantz said, "In my estimation, 30 people lost their lives because we didn't make a deal for political reasons."

Referring to the northern front, Gantz said: "I think the achievements in the northern arena are very important, both in Lebanon and in Syria." We need to continue this operation. There is an agreement that is currently being followed, it is very important to enforce its components and not to return to the equations of before October 7th.

Gantz emphasized the need for a broad strategic vision: "We are a small country and we need a big policy." "We must politically engage the USA, Saudi Arabia, and the regional countries because military force alone is not sufficient."

Regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, Gantz clarified: "We cannot allow broad threats to recreate themselves. I think we need to continue operating in Gaza, to continue the operational activities. We can live alongside the threat, not within it. We have no business in the settlements in Gaza. First and foremost, we need to bring the hostages home."

Gantz also addressed the political situation: "All the central issues must be resolved through agreements, and this is how we will keep Israeli society united." "We will not be united – we will not be here."

Regarding the issue of the evacuated settlements, Gantz called on the Knesset members: "I would definitely return to live in an evacuated settlement." I call on all my fellow Knesset members – take yourselves and go live in those settlements for a year. They talk a lot, do little."

Regarding the resignation of the officers responsible for the October 7th failure, Gantz said: "I think the command level in the army has long said it takes responsibility, so I am not at all worried about the military command taking responsibility." For now, when the reality is unstable, I'm glad they are at the helm."