Communications from the operation to rescue hostages Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher from Hamas captivity were released today (Monday) for the first time by the IDF.
“We are taking off with immense excitement for the most important mission of all—bringing back our brothers and sisters who were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. Romi, Emily, and Doron, we are finally bringing you home to your families,” the Air Force commander is heard telling his team before the hostages’ retrieval.
Medical Care and Family Reunions
After their arrival at the hospital, Dr. Yael Frenkel-Nir, Director of the General Hospital and head of the returnees’ reception operation at Sheba Medical Center, said, “The medical condition of the returnees allows us to focus on the most important aspect — their reunion with their families — and postpone medical evaluations for a few hours.”
Footage from the Air Force’s Operation Preparations:
תיעוד מהיערכות צוותי חיל האוויר לקראת תהליך קליטת השבות pic.twitter.com/2zd8r7EXKc
— דסק רגע (@deskrega) January 20, 2025
“We are meeting them after 471 days in captivity under unimaginable circumstances. We are well prepared to address any potential medical issues stemming from their ordeal,” added Dr. Sefi Mandelovich, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Health.
Operation Wings of Freedom”
Hostages Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari were released yesterday and brought back to Israel under the operation named “Kanfei Dror” (Wings of Freedom). The three hostages were transferred to the custody of the IDF and Shin Bet, and are currently at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel HaShomer. The IDF, Shin Bet, Mossad, and the healthcare system have stated they are prepared to continue receiving additional hostages set to be released during the next phase of the deal, and are committed to working towards the return of every last Hamas captive.
Four more female hostages are expected to be released in six days. The families of those selected hostage will be notified 24 hours prior to their release.
