Katz sees real chance for hostage deal with Hamas

There is “a chance that this time” Israel will “really be able to reach a hostage deal” with Hamas, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday.

“We are working on this matter and we see this goal in front of our eyes," Katz told soldiers at the Tel Nof air base.

"Regarding Gaza, the most important thing today in the war in general is to return the kidnapped people home," said Katz. "The intensity of the pressure on this monstrous organization called Hamas is increasing and there is a chance that this time we can really promote a deal for the abductees. We are working on this matter and we see this goal in front of our eyes," he added.

Katz also said that "of course, in the future Hamas will not be able to control Gaza.”

“This is something that is completely clear, because of what happened and because of what may happen," Katz added. "We will not stop the war until we return all the abductees and until we achieve the goals," he said.