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Five comments (and one clarification) about Israel's return to fighting in the Gaza Strip:

1. Anyone who feared there is a contradiction between fighting and returning hostages can relax. We can do both – continue negotiations for the release of the hostages in the midst of combat.
2. Much work still lies ahead, and it will take a long time. The initiative is in Israel's hands, and the next month is critical. It is imperative to complete the work in the north of the Gaza Strip, to attack the Khan Yunis Brigade, and to complete the conquest of the Rafah crossing.
3. A big question regarding the north: Hezbollah's return to firing is actually better for us. This is an opportunity to insist on our message – move Hezbollah further north.
4. American pressure is manageable. Humanitarian aid must be continued, and the movement of the civilian population for the purpose of protecting it must be allowed.
5. We need to return to a combat routine, and of course obey the directives issued by the Home Front Command.

And a final note – it is possible that what we are seeing now is the continued negotiation on the additional release of hostages, but under fire. If there is an opportunity for the release of more Israelis soon, then it should be realized, while returning to combat afterwards.