Gaza City, Gaza Strip-The aftermath of a dramatic Israeli military operation that rescued four hostages held by Hamas in Nuseirat refugee camp, central Gaza, continues to unfold, leaving more questions than answers. The rescue mission, shrouded in secrecy and controversy, resulted in the deaths of over 270 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials, marking one of the deadliest events since the conflict began.
Eyewitness accounts of the operation reveal a carefully planned and executed rescue that caught militants off guard in a densely packed civilian area. Reports suggest that Israeli forces utilized non-military vehicles, including a white Mercedes van, and potentially disguised themselves as Hamas fighters or civilians to carry out the operation.
The Israeli military has denied certain details of the operation, such as the use of civilian vehicles and disguises, but confirmed the successful rescue of the hostages. The rescue operation, which began on Oct. 7 during the Nova music festival, ended with the hostages being safely evacuated to the Mediterranean coast in two helicopters.
Despite the successful rescue, the operation left a trail of destruction in its wake, with conflicting reports on the number of casualties. Gazan authorities claim that 274 Palestinians were killed and 698 injured, while the IDF disputes these numbers, estimating the casualties to be under 100. The true toll of the operation remains uncertain, as Gaza’s health ministry does not differentiate between civilians and militants in their reports.
Witnesses describe a scene of chaos and devastation in Nuseirat camp, with heavy gunfire, missiles, and rockets pounding the area during and after the rescue mission. Video footage captured the intense bombardment that destroyed apartment buildings and vehicles throughout the camp, leaving residents terrified and in shock.
The Israeli military’s decision to carry out the rescue operation during the day, in a densely populated civilian area, has raised questions about the tactics and strategies employed. Eyewitnesses and experts continue to analyze the details of the mission, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by both sides in the ongoing conflict.
As the dust settles in Nuseirat camp, the repercussions of the rescue operation are still being felt, with residents grappling with the aftermath of the deadly events. The true impact of this mission, both in terms of lives saved and lost, remains a point of contention and debate among local and international observers.