The blockade of Gaza will no longer be necessary if Hamas puts a stop to terror and returns kidnapped soldier Gilad Schalit, said President Shimon Peres Sunday at a Jewish Agency conference.
Peres also referred to Israel's diplomacy crisis in the world, stating that delegitimizing Israel legitimizes terrorist organizations such as al-Qaida, Hamas and Hizbullah. He referred to these organizations as "dictatorships that kill indiscriminately."
The president also said that Israel must continue to make a strong effort to attain peace with the Palestinians.
Peres said that he does not believe Israel is isolated. He expressed his belief in US President Barack Obama's statements that Israel's security is a top priority for the Americans.
Peres also stated that he trusted the European nations to "tell those in Gaza and the West Bank that peace depends on them and will be attained at the negotiating table, and not through violent means."