In a daring daytime operation, the Israeli military successfully extracted four hostages from the clutches of Hamas militants in Gaza.
The rescued individuals, identified as Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40), were previously abducted during the Nova music festival on October 7.
The military’s statement confirmed that the hostages were now hospitalized and in stable health. Emotional scenes unfolded on social media, with footage showing a tearful reunion between Argamani and her father, and a cheerful Argamani conversing with President Isaac Herzog.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the Israeli army spokesman, detailed the complex rescue mission executed within two civilian buildings amidst hostile fire.
Despite the intense conditions, the operation, which commenced at 11 a.m. local time, resulted in the safe return of the hostages but left an Israeli soldier critically injured.
The operation’s success sends a resolute message to Hamas: Israel’s unwavering commitment to repatriating all hostages. This significant event occurs amid an ongoing eight-month conflict with the Palestinian organization.
Defence Minister Yoav Gallant expressed elation over the safe return of the hostages, while the military’s broader campaign continues to target terrorist strongholds, notably in the Nuseirat area.
Recent strikes have led to multiple casualties, with at least 15 fatalities reported by a local hospital.
The military’s aggressive stance has been evident in recent weeks, with intensified air and ground assaults, including a controversial strike on a UN-run school shelter, resulting in numerous deaths.
The Israeli military maintains that the strike eliminated several terrorists.
The recent rescue adds to a previous operation in February, further demonstrating Israel’s tactical capabilities in hostage recovery missions.
