By Brendan Scanland
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following a daring rescue by Israeli Special Forces, one of more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas since October 7, is back home in Israel.
The complex rescue mission took place in Gaza and was successful in rescuing 52-year-old Kaid Farhan Al-Qadi. He’s the first Israeli hostage to be rescued from underground Gaza tunnels.
“Today, Israeli Special Forces successfully rescued one of our hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza,” said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Kaid Farhan Al-Qadi, who was held for 326 days, is now home in Israel and in good condition.
According to the IDF, the special operation was successful due to accurate military intelligence. It comes after a tense weekend in the Middle East and amid ceasefire negotiations.
Today, some lawmakers weighed in, praising the successful rescue mission.
“I fully support Israel doing whatever is needed to rescue all remaining hostages,” said Senator John Fetterman (D- PA) on the social media platform X. “Demand Hamas #SendThemHomeNOW and end this Gaza tragedy.”
The rescue comes just days after a fiery weekend between Israel and the Iranian-backed proxy, Hezbollah, rocked the region.
“The situation in the Middle East is thousands of years old. There are animosities there that date back thousands of years as to why people don’t like each other,” said Rep. Jack Bergman (R- MI).
In recent weeks, Hezbollah has vowed retaliation for the killing of a senior military commander.
The exchange in fire on Sunday came as negotiations for a ceasefire-hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, resumed. Representatives of Hamas and Israel continue to disagree over terms, but more discussions are expected in the coming days.
Over the weekend in Egypt, Hamas officials reiterated they need guarantees that there will be a transition to a full and permanent ceasefire. Israel is open to a temporary ceasefire, but they are set on fully eradicating Hamas’ military capabilities.
According to the IDF, there are still 108 hostages held by Hamas.