Following the cease-fire agreement, a senior IDF intelligence officer has revealed that Israel knew the locations where most of the hostages were being held, however the sites were under constant surveillance and the captors kept the hostages so heavily guarded that a rescue attempt would likely have failed and indeed many soldiers were killed including 6 last week who were executed trying to rescue the hostages.
Israeli forces made repeated efforts to exploit any lapse by the captors, such as a moment of distraction, to attempt a rescue. “Our heroes made constant attempts, hoping the guards would make a mistake, look away, and give us the chance to save them,” said the officer.
Over 400 Israeli soldiers gave their lives during these missions, demonstrating unparalleled bravery. “These are brave warriors who sacrificed themselves for their brothers and sisters. We must always remember their courage and their sacrifice,” the officer stated.
May God bless these heroes, the State of Israel, and all those fighting against terror.
