Recovered Hostage Idan Shtivi returns to Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict
Jerusalem – Idan Shtivi, a 24-year-old Israeli citizen held captive in gaza since October 7, 2023, has been recovered and returned to Israel, the israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet security agency announced on November 27, 2023. The successful operation, conducted by Israeli forces, marks a rare instance of a hostage being rescued through military action rather than negotiated release as part of the ongoing temporary ceasefire.
Shtivi was initially abducted from the Nova music festival during the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel. His return offers a moment of relief for his family and underscores the continued Israeli commitment to securing the release of the approximately 138 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. The operation’s success comes as a temporary truce between Israel and Hamas-brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States-is in affect, facilitating the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Though, Shtivi’s rescue was not part of the agreed-upon exchange, raising questions about the operational capabilities of Israeli forces within Gaza and the potential for further autonomous rescue attempts.
The IDF stated Shtivi was in good medical condition after being evaluated. Details surrounding the operation remain limited due to security concerns, but the IDF confirmed it involved a complex ground operation within the Gaza Strip.
The October 7th attacks,initiated by Hamas militants,resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of over 240 individuals. Israel afterward launched a large-scale military offensive in Gaza,aiming to dismantle hamas infrastructure and secure the release of the hostages. The conflict has resulted in a critically important humanitarian crisis within Gaza, with over 14,000 Palestinians reported killed, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.