10 Indians held hostage in West Bank rescued by Israel
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.