Barak: No contradiction between ongoing IDF op and exploring diplomacy

By JPOST.COM STAFF
Defense Minister Ehud Barak on Sunday emphasized that Operation Cast Lead in Gaza was continuing even as diplomatic options were being examined. "We are continuing to act in order to restore quiet to the South and to prevent weapons smuggling via the Philadelphi Corridor," Barak said at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. "The IDF is operating by air, land and sea and is also exploring the diplomatic channel," he continued. "There is no contradiction between the two."