Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated today, Friday, that the current ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza is merely a "short and temporary pause" after which Israel will resume operations with full military force. He said, "There will be a short pause, then we will continue operations with full military power. We will not stop until we achieve our goals: the destruction of Hamas and the return of hostages from Gaza to Israel. There are 240 hostages, and this is something we cannot accept or be lenient about." Gallant made these remarks during a meeting with his Italian counterpart visiting Tel Aviv, according to his office.