Hostages Freed in Challenging Israeli Military Operation
The word 'relief' is probably not enough to describe the state of mind of their families. This Saturday, the Israeli army announced that it had freed four hostages alive during a 'difficult special daytime operation in Nusseirat,' in the center of the Gaza Strip. The four individuals had been kidnapped during the Nova electro music festival on October 7. They were identified as Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrei Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv, all of whom are reported to be in good health.
The Emotional Reunion and Their Stories
Noa Argamani, a 26-year-old studying Information Systems Management at Ben-Gurion University, was famously captured on footage while kidnapped on a motorbike by a group of men. Her phone's signal had been limited to the Gaza Strip, confirming her location. Today, she was reunited with her family and friends, bringing much-needed solace to her mother, who is battling cancer and had yearned for her return. Tragically, her partner Avinatan Or is still held captive.
Almog Meir Jan, who just turned 22, also faced a similarly harrowing experience. On the morning of October 7, he called his mother from hiding, promising to call every half hour—a promise he couldn't keep. Saturday marked an emotional reunion with his family, who had anxiously awaited his return. His sister expressed their plans to reunite as a family and enjoy a simple movie night together.
Andrei Kozlov, a 27-year-old security guard at the festival, had immigrated to Israel from Russia a year and a half ago. He managed to send messages to his father as gunshots rang around him. His mother, who has since immigrated to Israel following the October 7 incident, received him with open arms at the Sheba Tel Hashomer Hospital.
Shlomi Ziv, 43, was also working as a security guard during the Nova festival. He lived in a rural community in Alkosh with his wife Miren. After nearly a week with no information, his family was finally informed of his fate but did not receive concrete details until today. His sister, who had tirelessly advocated for his return, expressed overwhelming joy upon his safe arrival back in Israel.
The Continuing Struggle
While the rescue operation is a significant relief, the Families Forum promptly reminded the government of the 120 people still detained in Gaza, urging the authorities to honor their commitment to bring them back. The emotional reunions are just the beginning of a long journey towards healing and normalcy for these families.
- Noa Argamani had been studying Information Systems Management when the traumatic events of October 7 unfolded. Described as someone who loves yoga, art, and hiking, her kidnapping had captured global attention.
- Almog Meir Jan's family described him as someone who 'likes to have fun' and 'takes life lightly.' His family had tirelessly campaigned for his freedom and are overjoyed to finally have him back.
- Andrei Kozlov had moved to Israel alone as part of the Aliyah initiative to start a new life. His family was deeply affected by his kidnapping, and his safe return marks the end of a terrifying ordeal.
- Shlomi Ziv was known as a man with a big heart, always ready to help his loved ones. Taking an additional security job to aid his wife's cousin, his disappearance was a significant emotional blow for his family.
