Heroic Rescue Mission Brings Hostages Home
In a daring daylight rescue operation in the heart of the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces successfully freed hostages Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv on Saturday. The rescue took place in the densely-populated Nusirat refugee camp, where the four had been held captive. The meticulously planned operation was carried out with the participation of hundreds of fighters and involved intricate intelligence operations.
Tragically, Commander Arnon Zamora, a 36-year-old Navy fighter, died in the operation. He had previously played a heroic role in defending Kibbutz Yad Mordechai from terrorist attacks. Zamora, who resided in Moshav Sde David in the Lachish region, leaves behind a wife and two children. The fallen hero was honored for his bravery during the mission aimed at bringing the abductees home.
Detailed Planning and Execution
Operation 'Arnon' had been in the planning stages for three weeks, involving detailed trainings, intelligence gathering, and physical modeling to prepare for various scenarios. The Israeli force entered Nusirat under civilian camouflage, even using a truck disguised as carrying furniture for displaced people. Despite the successful rescue, Zamora was fatally wounded during the ensuing firefight.
Upon their rescue, the abductees were flown by helicopter to Sheba Hospital, where they underwent medical examinations and were reunited with their families. Prof. Itai Pesach from Sheba Hospital reported that while the hostages had endured numerous hardships, their conditions were stable, and they were in good spirits.
The emotional reunions included heartwarming moments such as Noa Argamani's father expressing immense gratitude and joy. Similarly, hundreds of people celebrated in Or Yehuda and other parts of Israel, reflecting widespread national relief and happiness.
Prominent international figures, including U.S. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Schulz, lauded the operation and emphasized the need for the release of all remaining hostages.
- Noa Argamani, a 26-year-old woman, was abducted from a party alongside her partner Avinatan Or. Video footage released by Hamas showed her desperate cries for help as terrorists held her.
- Shlomi Ziv, a 43-year-old security guard, managed a brief call with his sister on the day of his kidnapping before the connection was abruptly cut off. He later tearfully reunited with his wife via video call after his release.
- Andrey Kozlov, a 27-year-old immigrant from Russia, was also taken from the same party. Although he initially managed to send messages to friends, the communication was soon lost. Three weeks later, his family was informed of his capture.
- Almog Meir Jan, a 21-year-old discharged soldier, planned to start work at a communications company the day after the party from which he was kidnapped. The emotional roller-coaster experienced by his mother, Orit, upon hearing of his release, underscored the traumatic ordeal endured by the families.
- Spontaneous celebrations broke out across Israel, with beachgoers in Tel Aviv and Ashdod erupting in joyful shouts. Similar scenes were witnessed abroad, including in Athens, where Israeli tourists celebrated in the streets.
