In a joint operation Monday night, the IDF Paratroopers Brigade, including elements from Battalion 75 and the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit, working alongside the Shin Bet security service, successfully completed a mission to recover the bodies of hostages in the Khan Yunis area of Gaza.
The operation uncovered a tunnel entrance approximately 10 meters deep, leading to an underground network where the hostages' remains were located. Yahalom and Shin Bet personnel thoroughly investigated the tunnel system, neutralizing obstacles and blast doors. During the search, they discovered weapons, explosives, and supplies used by the terrorists.
This recovery mission followed extended combat operations in densely populated urban areas and multi-story buildings. IDF forces conducted extensive raids and searches, resulting in the neutralization of multiple terrorists and the destruction of terror infrastructure.
The operation was executed under the command of Division 98, with troops from the Paratroopers Brigade, Yahalom Unit, and Battalion 75 working in concert with Shin Bet operatives. Its success was attributed to precise intelligence provided by the Shin Bet, IDF intelligence units, and the specialized Hostages Command within the Intelligence Division.
This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing attempts to resolve the hostage crisis that has been a central aspect of the conflict since October 7.