Israeli forces rescue four hostages from Gaza Strip

This morning, a joint operation by the IDF, the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), and the Israel Police Yamam anti-terror unit successfully rescued four Israeli hostages from the Gaza Strip. The rescued individuals are Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40). They were abducted by Hamas on October 7 last year during the Nova music festival near the Re’im border settlement. Fortunately, all four are reported to be in good condition.

Tragically, Yamam officer Arnon Zemora was critically injured during the operation and later succumbed to his wounds in the hospital.

The hostages were rescued from two separate locations in Nuseirat, located in the central part of the Gaza Strip. The rescue missions were carried out by Yamam and the Israel Security Agency, with support from the IDF providing cover fire from both the ground and the air. Hamas has alleged that there were civilian casualties during the operation.

“This was a bold operation carried out in broad daylight,” stated IDF Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. “Our fighters bravely raided two buildings in the heart of the Gaza Strip, successfully rescuing the hostages and neutralizing threats to our forces in the area. The intelligence gathering for this operation was incredibly complex.”

“While we celebrate this success, our efforts will not cease until all 120 hostages are brought back home,” Hagari affirmed. “Our message to Hamas is clear: we are resolute in our commitment to bringing our citizens back, and we will take all necessary actions to achieve this goal.”

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed relief at the safe return of Noa, Almog, Andrey, and Shlomi. He commended the courage and bravery displayed by the IDF, the Israel Security Agency, and Yamam during the operation. Gallant emphasized that the defense forces will continue to strive for the release of the remaining hostages, using every available opportunity to do so.

National Unity party leader Benny Gantz, who had threatened to withdraw from the government if a clear plan for Gaza governance was not presented by June 8, postponed his announcement following the successful rescue operation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Gantz to remain in the government, which Gantz acknowledged while highlighting the ongoing challenges that Israel faces.

Source: Globes, Israel business news – Published on June 8, 2024.

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