Gantz expresses hope Gilad Schalit will be released soon

During Pessah Seder with soldiers, IDF chief of staff says he "can attest to efforts being made to end this affair."

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Gantz and soldier 311 (photo credit: IDF Spokesperson)
Gantz and soldier 311
(photo credit: IDF Spokesperson)
IDF Chief of General Staff Benny Gantz on Monday evening expressed hope that kidnapped soldier Gilad Schalit will be released soon from Hamas captivity.
"I can attest to the efforts being made to end this ugly and complex affair," Gantz said during a Pessah Seder held with infantry soldiers.
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Gantz also commented on the Hamas anti-tank missile attack on the Negev school bus earlier this month that killed 16-year-old Daniel Viflic, saying that the IDF would not hesitate to use force as necessary to stop the terrorists.
In related news, Noam and Aviva Schalit sat in front of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem on Monday night as a fifth Pessah holiday passes since their son was captured. Gilad has been in captivity for 1757 days.
Several supporters joined the Schalits in front of the prime minister's home in a show of solidarity.
Army Radio reported Noam as saying, "Gilad also deserves to celebrate this holiday of liberation after five long years."
Earlier Monday, President Shimon Peres visited the Schalit tent in Jerusalem and said that he believes their son will return home alive.
"I feel myself on the side of the family. I am optimistic this time and convinced with all my soul that we will see Gilad alive and well at home," Peres said.
"I am proud of the family and Gilad," Peres continued. "I feel, just as the entire nation does, that this issue should occupy our thoughts every day."