Israeli Rescue Team Returns After Successful Earthquake Aid Mission in Colombia

The Israeli "Friendship Alliance" delegation has returned to Israel after completing a 12-day rescue operation in Colombia following a devastating earthquake. The team, consisting of approximately 80 rescuers, engineers, and experts from both active duty and reserves, worked closely with local authorities, rescue forces, and international organizations. During their mission, they located and rescued 29 missing persons in the affected areas. Upon concluding their tasks and transferring knowledge and equipment to local teams, the delegation departed Colombia on an Israeli Air Force plane.

A ceremony summarizing the mission was held at the Rehavam camp in Ramla, attended by the Home Front Command commander, Major General Shay Kalper. Kalper emphasized the success of the mission, stating, "Today we can say there are no missing persons left in the city of Cali." The earthquake, which struck western Colombia on August 10 with a magnitude of 7.4, caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and damaging infrastructure. Official reports indicate over 500 fatalities and approximately 4,595 injuries from the disaster.