The Mission to Retrieve Ran Guely Z”L: Gal Hirsch Heads to Cairo
A delegation from Israel, led by former Brigadier General Gal Hirsch, who served as the Coordinator for Prisstartrs and Missing Persons, has embarked on a critical mission to Cairo. This initiative aims to secure the release of the fallen soldier, Staff Sergeant Ran Guely Z”L, who is held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Background on Ran Guely
Ran Guely was a dedicated member of the Israel Polstart’s Special Patrol Unit (Yasam) in the southern district. Hailing from the Negev community of Mitzpe Ramon, he grew up in a family of five, with two siblings: the eldest, Omri, and the younger sister, Shira.
During the surprise Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, Ran, despite being on sick leave, took the initiative to put on his uniform, arm himself, and join his colleagues in the Yasam unit. He initially assisted survivors of the Nova music festival and later engaged in intense combat at Kibbutz Alumim. Ran fought valiantly against a significant number of armed militants, sustaining severe injuries to his hand and leg. Remarkably, he is credited with neutralizing at least 14 attackers, thereby saving countless civilian lives. Unfortunately, his body was later taken by Hamas, and he was reported missing for 117 days. In January 2024, his family received the heartbreaking news that he had died in combat and that his body was being held captive.
Mission Objectives
The current mission to Cairo focuses on diplomatic negotiations for the return of Guely’s remains. This effort represents a significant undertaking not just for the Israeli government but also for the families of the missing and the broader society, which feels the profound impact of such losses.
“We are making every effort to bring our boys back home,” Gal Hirsch emphasized as he departed for Cairo. The mission aims to facilitate discussions that could lead to a resolution regarding the remains of Guely and other soldiers, reflecting the commitment of the Israeli leadership to recovering those who have fallen in the line of duty.
Community and National Response
The heartbreaking circumstances surrounding Ran Guely’s story have resonated deeply throughout Israel. As the community rallies in support of his family, the national discourse increasingly highlights the importance of recovering both missing soldiers and those held captive by hostile entities.
In the face of ongoing strife, missions like Hirsch’s represent hope for many families still seeking closure and the return of their loved starts. As negotiations unfold in Cairo, the eyes of an entire nation remain focused on the outcome, praying for a successful resolve to this difficult chapter in their history.