'No better unit in the world': PM Netanyahu praises Yamam unit for heroic hostage rescue missions

Netanyahu opened Yamam's 50th anniversary celebration by commending the elite unit for its contribution to Israel's war against terrorism.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Yamam, the Israeli Police National Counter-Terrorism unit, at its base on Sunday, commending it for decades of excellence in adverse missions in enemy territory.

The meeting, which was meant to celebrate 50 years since the establishment of the unit, was pushed back a year due to the war.

"We are now marking 50 years of operations, breakthroughs, covert cooperation with the best units, and 50 years of saving lives," Netanyahu said during his address.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel Police Inspector General Dani Levy, and Commander of Border Police Yitzhak Brik also attended the meeting alongside other senior army officials and soldiers.

"The National Counter-Terrorism Unit is a pillar of our national security," stated Netanyahu, who pledged full backing to the unit in support of Israel's war on terrorism.

Helmet camera footage of Shin Bet operatives and Israel Police Counterterrorism Unit Yamam rescuing hostages under heavy fire and kill terrorists, June 10, 2024. (credit: Israel Police)

He made an honorable mention to two noteworthy missions, Operation "Golden Hand" and Operation "Arnon," which resulted in the successful rescue of Israeli hostages in Gaza.

Hostage rescue operations completed by Yamam in Gaza

"Operation Golden Hand" involved the rescue of Fernando Marman and Louis Har, while "Operation Arnon," named after Arnon Zamora, a Yaman commando chief inspector who was killed during the operation, resulted in the rescue of Noa Argamani, Almog Meir, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv.

Netanyahu attributed the success of both missions to Yamam's progress and resourcefulness, noting that the unit has a close history of cooperation with the IDF and Shin Bet in numerous counter-terrorism operations in Gaza and the West Bank.

Netanyahu vowed his full trust to the unit, promising not to cancel a single operation. "I rely on you, the people of Israel rely on you, and the Government of Israel relies on you."