The IDF is prepared for a ground op in Gaza

     "We are prepared for the possibility of an operation, if it becomes necessary," Chief of General Staff Lt.- Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi said. "(But), until then it is incumbent upon us to exhaust all of the other methods and act day and night in order to provide security." "The matter of entering Gaza, operating there and leaving is more complex than just a response to a Kassam rocket. There is a war going on ..., and (large) magnitudes of forces are operating there night in and night out," he said. In an interview to Army Radio, Ashkenazi was asked about his objection to the release of Palestinian security prisoners during the previous round of paroles, and explained that in his view, Israel was wrong to free prisoners without demanding Shalit's release in return. "Of course, if this is related to Shalit's release or can jumpstart or promote it, it should considered," he stated. Hamas leaders denied Tuesday reports saying there was progress concerning a possible prisoner swap deal that would include Gilad Shalit, adding that it also did not agree to relay messages between the kidnapped soldier and his family in Israel. Red Cross representatives in Gaza said the Islamist group agreed to pass on a letter from Shalit, but a senior member of the organization told Ynet, "There is no concrete discussion on anything, but if a fair and worthy exchange is put on the table, we will be willing to consider any offer." (13,28)