Members of the Tikva Forum, which unites the families of the roughly 240 people taken hostage by Gaza terrorists, have demanded that the Cabinet increase pressure on Hamas and end all humanitarian aid to Gaza. The demand follows a statement by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (Likud) that the way to free the hostages is by increasing pressure on the Hamas terror group. The parents, members of the Tikva Forum, emphasized that they trust that the IDF is "working day and night" to evacuate the hostages, by placing pressure on Hamas and the other terror groups in Gaza. "We thank and support the IDF soldiers, who are working with strength and courage in the Gaza Strip, and we support them in their uncompromising battle to evacuate all of the hostages as quickly as possible," they said. "We see the dedication and courage of the soldiers, every single day." Related articles: "Eid Mubarak". “Let us love, Let us be loved” Hamas captivity survivors take off for US Israel passes counter-proposal for ceasefire to mediators Remains of hostage Manny Goddard found in Gaza The families from the Tikva Forum also noted that if there is a "selektzia" between the soldiers and young men, and the children, women, and elderly, this will harm the unity of the families and create a rift between the families, as was demonstrated on Monday night. In addition, the families expressed the concern that the immediate cost of such a "selektzia" would leave the younger hostages in danger of their lives, spur a deterioration of the conditions in which they are kept, and leave them in Hamas captivity for an extended period of time. "We have responsibility and empathy towards all of the hostages, and worry about each one's complete release - without leaving anyone behind in Hamas captivity," the families' representatives said. "We need to increase the unity amongst all parts of the nation."
