On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, infiltrating through tunnels and killing dozens of civilians and soldiers in southern Israeli communities. Among the victims were four Israeli soldiers who were captured by the terrorists and taken to a bunker near the Gaza security fence. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a massive search and rescue operation, involving air strikes, ground forces, and special units. One of the most remarkable feats of the operation was the rescue of 250 hostages, including one of the captured soldiers, by the elite naval commando unit known as Shayetet 13.
Shayetet 13 is considered one of the most secretive and elite units in the IDF, specializing in maritime warfare, counter-terrorism, sabotage, and hostage rescue. The unit has a history of daring and successful operations, such as the 1976 raid on Entebbe, the 1988 assassination of Abu Jihad, and the 2010 interception of the Mavi Marmara. The unit is also known for its rigorous training and selection process, which only accepts a few candidates out of thousands every year.
The rescue operation of the 250 hostages was planned and executed in a matter of hours, with the help of intelligence and technology. The IDF used drones, satellites, and sensors to locate the bunker where the hostages were held, and to monitor the movements and communications of the Hamas terrorists. The IDF also used cyber warfare to jam and disrupt the enemy’s networks and devices, and to spread misinformation and confusion among them.
The Shayetet 13 unit was airlifted by helicopters to a nearby location, where they prepared for the assault. The unit was divided into two teams: one to storm the bunker and free the hostages, and the other to provide cover and support. The assault team used explosives and breaching tools to enter the bunker, where they encountered fierce resistance from the Hamas terrorists. The team engaged in close-quarters combat, using silenced weapons, grenades, and knives. The team also used advanced equipment, such as night vision goggles, thermal imaging cameras, and body cameras, to navigate the dark and complex underground structure.
The team managed to locate and free the hostages, who were chained and blindfolded in a large hall. Among the hostages was Pvt. Ori Megidish, one of the captured soldiers, who was severely wounded and dehydrated. The team also captured the Hamas leader who was in charge of the bunker, and seized valuable intelligence materials, such as documents, laptops, and phones. The team then escorted the hostages to the exit, where they were met by the support team and medical personnel. The hostages were then evacuated by helicopters to Israeli hospitals, where they received treatment and care.
How IDF Rescued Hostages
The rescue operation was a huge success, as the IDF managed to save 250 lives and inflict a heavy blow to Hamas. The operation also demonstrated the professionalism, courage, and skill of the Shayetet 13 unit, which earned praise and admiration from the Israeli public and the international community. The operation was also captured on video by the IDF, which released the footage to the media and the social media platforms. The video showed the dramatic and heroic moments of the operation, such as the explosion of the bunker entrance, the firefight with the terrorists, the release of the hostages, and the capture of the Hamas leader. The video went viral, attracting millions of views and comments from around the world.
The IDF rescue operation from Hamas was one of the most remarkable events of the year, and a testament to the strength and resilience of Israel and its armed forces. The operation also showed the importance of cooperation and coordination among different branches and units of the IDF, as well as the use of intelligence and technology to achieve the mission. The operation also highlighted the bravery and dedication of the Shayetet 13 unit, which proved once again that they are among the best in the world.