The Tragic Return of Farhan Al Qadi from Hamas Captivity
Farhan Al Qadi, a 52-year-old resident of Rahat, has returned to Israel after being held captive by Hamas for over a month. His return was marked by the heartbreaking revelation that he witnessed the death of fellow abductee Aryeh Zalmanovich, an 86-year-old man from Kibbutz Nir Oz, who reportedly suffered greatly during his captivity. Al Qadi's rescue operation, conducted by the IDF and Shin Bet, highlights the ongoing struggles faced by those held in captivity by militant groups like Hamas.
The Suffering of Aryeh Zalmanovich
Zalmanovich, a prominent figure in Kibbutz Nir Oz and a father of two, succumbed to his ailments after enduring 40 days of physical and mental agony in captivity. Al Qadi recounted how he tried to assist Zalmanovich, who was in dire need of medical care and medication. The emotional toll of witnessing such suffering has left Al Qadi with a heavy heart, as he shared details of their time together in captivity, including the lack of basic necessities and the constant fear of violence.
A Call for Action and Awareness
The plight of captives like Zalmanovich and Al Qadi underscores the urgent need for action from the Israeli government. Kibbutz Nir Oz has called for immediate efforts to secure the release of all abductees, emphasizing that every moment spent in captivity poses a significant risk to their lives. As the situation continues to evolve, the stories of those affected by this ongoing conflict serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of such violence.
- Farhan Al Qadi's abduction on October 7 was a part of a larger wave of kidnappings that occurred during the Hamas attacks. His family learned of his capture through social media, which has become a vital source of information in such crises. Al Qadi's return to Soroka Medical Center in Be'er Sheva marks a bittersweet moment for his family, who are relieved yet saddened by the loss of Zalmanovich. The IDF's Division 162 played a crucial role in the rescue, showcasing the complexities and dangers involved in operations against Hamas.
