18:37 IL: IDF Spokesman Brigadier-General Moti Almoz gave a brief message to the nation a short time ago. Following are the main points of his message.

I just arrived from operational command. An operation has been approved by the Yosh Division Commander and Central District Commander Major-General Eyal Alon. I see the soldiers remain highly motivated and dedicated. To date some 200 arrests have been made and those in custody are being interrogated.

We confiscated weapons and explosives and continue to operate in all areas of Yehuda and Shomron in an open-ended operation.

I embrace the families of the captives and give them strength and encouragement, telling you the IDF is doing everything possible to bring the boys home.

Names for Tehillim:

1. Yaakov Naftali ben Rachel Devorah

2. Gilad Michael ben Bat Galim

3. Eyal ben Iris Tesurah

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)