IDF rescues 4 hostages alive in stunning operation in central Gaza
Four Israeli hostages were rescued alive by troops from Hamas captivity in a daring operation in the central Gaza Strip earlier today, the military announces.
The rescued hostages are named as Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv. All four had been abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7 from the Supernova music festival near the southern community of Re’im.
Special forces had simultaneously raided two Hamas sites in central Gaza’s Nuseirat. At one location, Argamani was rescued, while Meir Jan, Kozlov, and Ziv were at the second location.
The rescued hostages are all in good condition, according to initial medical assessments. They were taken to Tel Hashomer Hospital for further evaluation.
Amid the operation, heavy airstrikes were carried out in the area against Hamas sites and in support of the ground troops. Hamas health authorities reported a “large number” of casualties.
Report from a known good source:
The hostages were held in 2 apartment buildings 200 apart. IDF Special Forces, supported by the Yamam Counter Terrorist unit of the Israeli Police, simultaneously hit both apartments immediately eliminating the terrorist captors in a matter of seconds.
The entire Nuseirat Camp became active with hostiles and the Special Forces called in support. The Israeli Air force began hitting Nuseirat. Many enemy casualties reported.
IDF ground troops, supported by armor, entered Nuseirat Camp in force to provide support for the Special Forces in order to cover the exit of the hostages. There was heavy combat during the exfil. Police Chief Inspector Arnon Zemorah was severely wounded and later died in surgery. All 4 hostages were flown safely by helicopter to meet their families.