Israel rescues hostage from tunnel in Gaza
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) -- Israel said it rescued a hostage from Hamas in an underground tunnel in Gaza Tuesday. This comes as the U.S. is still trying to broker a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that includes the release of the remaining hostages.
"His medical condition is stable, and he will undergo examination," said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a spokesperson for the Israeli military.
A helicopter brought 52-year-old Qaid Farhan Alkadi to safety at an Israeli hospital, where he reunited with his family after 326 days in Hamas captivity.
Hagari said he could not share details about the special operation but committed to bringing home the dozens of remaining hostages, which include American citizens.
"We will pursue the return of our hostages through all means possible," Hagari said. "I repeat through all means possible."
The U.S. has been trying to do this via diplomacy, continuing talks in Egypt this week for a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas but an agreement still hasn't materialized.
"We remain intently focused on deescalating tensions in the Middle East while also remaining focused on securing a ceasefire as part of a hostage deal," said Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary.
Ryder said two U.S. carriers will remain in the Middle East to support the defense of Israel, but he could not give a timeline on their deployment.
"The bottom line is we can walk and chew gum at the same time," Ryder said.
According to the Israeli military, Alkadi is one of eight hostages held by Hamas to be rescued alive. Last week, troops recovered the bodies of six other hostages.