In a statement, Gallant said that "Hamas has two options, to die in battle against the IDF or to surrender unconditionally."
On the rescue of Private Megidish, Gallant said that "this is further proof of our ability to reach the abductees, the importance of the ground operation, and above all our commitment to each and every one of the abductees."
He added: "The ground operation is not easy, the enemy resists, but the IDF forces operate with precision and determination with the cooperation of ground forces, air force, and quality intelligence."
Addressing the controversy surrounding Prime Minister Netanyahu's now-deleted tweet criticizing the leaders of the IDF and intelligence agencies for not providing a warning prior to the October 7 massacre, the Defense Minister said that "I have full confidence in the Chief of Staff, the head of the Shin Bet and the head of the Mossad - I believe in them and consider myself their partner."