The IDF's offensive in Gaza
"promotes the prospects for jumpstarting a speedy process" that would lead to the release of Israeli captive Gilad Shalit, Defense Minister Ehud Barak said Thursday.
However, he added, "tough decisions would have to be made in order to realize this."
Barak
spoke during an Israel's Manufacturers Association convention in Tel Aviv.
"There's nothing closer to our heart today, and not a day goes by without the issue being on my agenda," Barak stated, but said that it was best not to discuss the matter further.
Commenting on the gains of the Gaza campaign, the defense minister said: "We now face a period that would likely be quiet for a long time. I believe that Hamas' appetite for renewing the rocket attacks on Israel's southern communities has been reduced.
"Operation Cast Lead concluded yesterday morning," Barak continued. "The objectives have been met.
The IDF has proved itself. We embarked on this operation in order to eliminate any hostile activity and to curb the smuggling, in coordination with Egypt among other means. These two goals have been achieved."
Barak stressed that despite the calm period he believed lies ahead, the IDF remains alert and ready for any development. "We will have to continue to thrive in between struggles… the force of the blow the IDF has dealt to Hamas, and to Hizbullah before it, brought about today's calm."
The defense minister also lauded the civilians in the home front for their endurance, responsibility and solidarity during the three weeks of fighting.
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