In a dramatic operation on Tuesday morning, the Israeli Defense Forces ( IDF) rescued father of 11 Qaid Farhan Alkadi from Hamas captivity after 326 days. According to the New York Post, troops discovered Alkadi alone and disheveled in a Hamas pipe in southeastern Gaza.
Alkadi is a member of Israel’s Arab Muslim community.
The IDF shared video footage showing Alkadi, 52, shaking fingers with IDF Brig. Gen. Itzik Cohen. Alkadi is seen thanking the soldiers for saving him in the video. He appeared overjoyed, smiling broadly as he interacted with Cohen and different men.
Another video shows Alkadi giving the military a thumbs-up as they approach a military helicopter. Alkadi continued to grin despite some apprehensions about the voyage while leaving Gaza. He was immediately rushed to Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, where doctors immediately treated him.
The IDF has not yet provided in-depth information about the rescue, but it did point out that the procedure was successful because of accurate knowledge. No opposition was encountered by the government, suggesting Hamas attackers had possible fled the area. This is in addition to previous instances of IDF forces operating in southern Gaza who faced much resistance.
Sharing his emotions, Alkadi said,” Hebrew outside the door, I could n’t believe it, could n’t believe it”, reported the Times of Israel.
Alkadi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after being reunited with his home and going through a health examination. He praised the recovery, and urged Netanyahu to give other victims ‘ rescues prior consideration.
” There are others who are waiting”, Alkadi told the Prime Minister. ” People are suffering it, every minute… do everything to provide individuals home”.
Alkadi was taken prisoner by Hamas near Mivtahim, where he worked as a securityman at a Kibbutz Magen shipping shop. His recovery is the first time a live hostage has been successfully taken out of Gaza’s tunnel networks. Prior rescues have taken place above-ground.
The activity took place as a result of the ongoing fight between Hamas and Israel, where many victims are still awaiting rescue. According to Alkadi, their anguish is serious, and urgent work are necessary to secure their independence.
