The Mishnah Berurah (Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan, the Chafetz Chaim, circa 1838-1933, Orach Chayyim 219:6), commenting on the Mechaber’s requirement of a minyan, rules that the person saying HaGomel can be part of the minyan. In his Sha’ar Hatziyyun commentary, he explains his view: “Just as bridegrooms (Ketubot 7b-8a) are included in the minyan necessary to receive their blessing – and according to one sage this is also derived from the same verse, ‘Let them exalt Him in the assembly of people…’ – so should one who is required to say HaGomel [be included in the minyan].”
On this point, the Mishnah Berurah maintains the most lenient view. Also lenient on this point are the Kaf Hachayyim (Rabbi Yaakov Chayyim Sofer, rav in Bhagdad, circa 1870-1939, O.C. 219:19-23) and the ever popular Yalkut Yosef (by the current Rishon Letzion, chief rabbi of Israel, yibadel l’chayyim, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef, O.C. 219:9-10).
(To be continued)