Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said on Saturday that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is nearing the goals set for its Cast Lead Operation in the Hamas- ruled Gaza Strip.

"After three weeks of Operation Cast Lead, the IDF is close to reaching the operation's objectives, to be bolstered with political agreements," Barak was quoted by local news service Ynet as saying during a visit to the headquarters of the paratroopers' division.

"The IDF and other security forces must continue their operation and be prepared for any possible development," said the defense minister.

The operation, which began on December 27, last year entered its 22th day on Saturday, killing more than 1,200 Palestinians.