Israeli Forces Recover Bodies of Six Hostages, Including Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin, in Gaza Tunnel
Late Saturday, President Joe Biden and the Israeli military announced the recovery of the bodies of six hostages held by Hamas, including Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin. The operation, conducted by Israeli forces, took place in a tunnel beneath the Gaza city of Rafah. The other recovered hostages were identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Master Sgt. Ori Danino. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), all six hostages had been killed shortly before the arrival of Israeli troops.
President Biden expressed his grief and anger over the news, stating, “I am devastated and outraged. Hersh was among the innocents brutally attacked while attending a music festival for peace in Israel on October 7. He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre.”
The tragedy has reignited debates over the stalled negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the killings, asserting that Hamas would be held accountable. “Whoever murders hostages doesn’t want a deal,” Netanyahu said, blaming the militant group for obstructing progress in the negotiations.
Goldberg-Polin’s family released a statement early Sunday, saying, “With broken hearts, the Goldberg-Polin family is devastated to announce the death of their beloved son and brother, Hersh. The family thanks you all for your love and support and asks for privacy at this time.”
Hersh Goldberg-Polin became one of the most recognized hostages after his parents, U.S.-born immigrants to Israel, took their campaign for his release to the global stage. They met with leaders including President Biden and Pope Francis, addressed the United Nations, and even spoke at the Democratic National Convention, where they implored the world to help bring their son and other hostages home.
The recovery of the hostages’ bodies is expected to increase pressure on Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of those still in captivity. The Israeli leader has maintained that military pressure is essential to achieve this goal, despite reports of disagreements with top security officials advocating for a more urgent diplomatic solution.
Hamas has previously offered to release hostages in exchange for a cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. However, negotiations have been fraught, with both sides blaming each other for delays.
President Biden reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to holding Hamas accountable, saying, “Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will keep working around the clock for a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages.”
As of now, the exact number of hostages still held by Hamas remains unclear, with Israeli estimates suggesting that around 108 hostages are still in Gaza, with about one-third believed to be deceased. The discovery of the six bodies brings a grim reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for resolution.
Israel’s largest trade union, Histadrut, has called for a general strike on Monday, aiming to pressure the government into reaching a cease-fire that could lead to the release of the remaining hostages. The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely watching developments in the region.
South Florida Media Comments