Israel conducted its largest hostage rescue operation in central Gaza amidst heavy air and ground assault by Hamas, bringing four hostages to safety. At least 94 Palestinians, including children, were reported dead and brought to local hospitals.
The army successfully freed Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv in a daring daytime operation in Nuseirat. All hostages were unharmed and reunited with their families after 246 days of captivity.
The rescue included hostages taken from a music festival, with Argamani being a widely recognized captive. After the rescue, she expressed excitement at speaking Hebrew again. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue the fight until all hostages are freed.
The operation resulted in casualties among Palestinians, with bodies taken to local hospitals. There was condemnation from neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan, for the attack on the Nuseirat refugee camp.
The European Union called for an immediate end to the bloodshed, while the U.S. hostage cell provided support during the rescue mission. The operation brought the total number of rescued hostages to seven, with ongoing efforts to free the remaining captives.
Despite the rescue, divisions in Israel persist over ceasefire negotiations. Netanyahu faces pressure to embrace a deal announced by President Biden, but far-right allies threaten to destabilize the government if he does.
The international community is urging Israel to limit civilian casualties and facilitate aid to Palestinians facing hunger. The conflict in Gaza has escalated, with casualties on both sides and ongoing military operations.
Efforts to secure a ceasefire deal and release remaining hostages are underway, with Secretary of State Blinken returning to the Middle East for further negotiations. The situation remains complex and the focus is on achieving a peaceful resolution.
Israel at War
Israel declares 4 more hostages are dead in Gaza, including 3 older men
3:29 PM, Jun 03, 2024
