Israeli Armed Forces successfully rescues hostage from Gaza tunnel on Oct. 7

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that a hostage who had been held captive for 326 days was rescued “in a complex operation in the southern Gaza Strip.”

The IDF stated that Qaid Farhan Alkadi, 52, is in stable condition and has been taken to a hospital for medical checks.

“His family has been informed of the details, and the IDF is supporting them,” it mentioned.

The Israeli military chose not to disclose further information, citing “the safety of our hostages, the security of our forces, and national security.”

According to some Israeli media reports, Alkadi had escaped in the Rafah area and was subsequently rescued.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who confirmed he had spoken with Alkadi, commended the troops for the rescue and affirmed that Israel would continue efforts for the return of all hostages.

“We do this in two main ways: through negotiations and rescue operations. Both ways together require our military presence in the field, and unceasing military pressure on Hamas,” he stated.

The Hamas terrorist group, in its surprise attack across the border on Oct. 7, 2023, killed 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, injured thousands, and abducted 250 more.

Israel entered Gaza in an attempt to dismantle Hamas.

Approximately 40,000 Palestinians have perished in the conflict, as reported by Gaza health authorities who are under Hamas control and do not differentiate between civilians and militants.

Israel has estimated that the deceased include 17,000 Hamas combatants in recent weeks. The group had an estimated 30,000 fighters at the beginning of the war.