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10 Indians held hostage in West Bank rescued by Israel
The workers were held hostage for over a month

10 Indians held hostage in West Bank rescued by Israel

Mar 07, 2025
09:58 am

What's the story

Ten Indian construction workers, who were held hostage for over a month in the West Bank village of al-Zaayem, have been rescued by Israeli forces. The workers were reportedly lured to the village with job offers but had their passports seized upon arrival. These documents were allegedly used by Palestinians to illegally enter Israel.

Rescue mission

Joint operation rescues Indian workers

The Population and Immigration Authority conducted the rescue operation, with the assistance of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Justice Ministry. After their rescue, the workers have been moved to a safe place as their employment is being reviewed. The Indian Embassy in Israel has confirmed that an investigation is underway in this case.

Diplomatic response

Indian Embassy urges Israel to ensure workers' safety

The Indian Embassy in Israel has requested Israeli authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the rescued workers. Some 16,000 laborers arrived in Israel from India in the previous year as part of an Israeli government initiative after tens of thousands of Palestinian construction workers were barred from entering Israel following Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack.