IDF Soldiers Risked Lives Under Heavy Fire to Free Hostages in Rafah

IDF soldier during raid (Screenshot) (Screenshot)

Fernando Simon Marman (60) and Norberto Louis Har (70), both dual Argentinian and Israeli citizens, were abducted from their homes in kibbutz Nir Yitzchak by Hamas.

By Shula Rosen

Israel freed two hostages, Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Har, 70—in an overnight mission in Rafah.

The IDF, Israel Security Agency and Israel Police worked together to free the two, who are both from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak and in good medical condition, per the IDF.

IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari described the dramatic rescue of two Israeli hostages from Rafah in a dangerous overnight mission.

Hagari said, “Last night, we brought Louis and Fernando home in a joint rescue operation by the IDF, the Israel Security Agency, and the Yamam – the special forces unit of the Israel Police.”

Fernando Simon Marman (60) and Norberto Louis Har (70), both dual Argentinian and Israeli citizens, were abducted from their homes in kibbutz Nir Yitzchak by Hamas terrorists on October 7th.

Hagari added, “This was a complex rescue operation under fire in the heart of Rafah, based on highly sensitive and valuable intelligence from the Intelligence Directorate and the Israel Security Agency.”

The IDF spokesman said that the IDF had been preparing for this mission for some time and were waiting for the right moment.

At 01:49 am, special forces entered a building in the heart of Rafah, and when they reached the second floor, they saw the two hostages surrounded by three terrorist guards as well as armed terrorists in adjacent buildings.

“From the moment of the breach and entry into the apartment, Yamam forces shielded Louis and Fernando with their bodies, initiating a daring battle and heavy exchanges of fire at several locations simultaneously, with many terrorists,” Hagari continued.

At 1:50 am, the IAF launched airstrikes in the area,

Prior to breaching the building, the IAF launched airstrikes against Hamas’s Shabura battalion to distract them from the main intent of the mission which was to liberate the hostages.

The two released hostages were transferred to Sheba Medical center, and after an initial examination, their condition was described as “good and stable.”

Daniel Hagari concluded, “Along with the excitement this morning after the successful rescue operation, we do not forget for a moment that in Gaza, 134 hostages are still being held.”

“I want to address you this morning: if you are listening to me, know that we are determined to bring you back home. We will not give up any opportunity to bring you back home.”