Only One of Colombian Triplet Sisters Survives Deadly Earthquake as Israeli Rescue Teams Assist

Six days after the devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia, rescue efforts continue amid heartbreaking stories. In the city of Cali, one of the hardest-hit areas, only one of a set of 23-year-old triplet sisters survived the disaster. Ana Maria was found alive under a wooden table after the collapse of their four-story building, while her twin sisters, Isabella and Sofia, along with their parents, Jair Saavedra (63) and Victoria Caicedo (61), tragically died. The parents were discovered embracing in their bedroom.

Ana Maria was rescued by neighbors who heard her cries and was taken to a clinic. She underwent surgery for a pelvic fracture and is currently recovering, fully conscious and receiving psychological support. The sisters had been inseparable, studying marketing together, spending their last semester in France, and working in the same field in Cali.

An Israeli rescue delegation, part of a joint mission by the Foreign Ministry and Home Front Command, arrived in Colombia on Friday evening to assist in the relief efforts. Operating under the name "Operation Alliance," the team is working at two major destruction sites in Cali, collaborating with local volunteers to locate and rescue survivors. Israeli engineers are also advising on the safe removal of rubble at the University Hospital in Cali, ensuring hospital operations continue uninterrupted.

Led by Brigadier General Yossi Pinto, the Israeli team is mapping and assessing damaged buildings alongside local authorities to prioritize recovery efforts. Israeli Ambassador Alon Lavi expressed pride in the cooperation between Israeli rescuers and Colombian counterparts, highlighting the extraordinary local volunteer spirit aiding the rescue mission. The earthquake has claimed at least 294 lives and injured over 3,900 people across the region.