Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was taken hostage by Hamas nearly 11 months ago, was found dead in Gaza along with five other hostages. President Biden confirmed their deaths, stating that they were brutally attacked by Hamas while attending a music festival for peace. Goldberg-Polin, who lost his arm during the attack, had just turned 23 and had planned to travel the world. He was born in the United States and moved to Israel with his family at a young age.
Goldberg-Polin’s parents, along with the families of the other hostages, have been vocal in their efforts to bring their loved ones home, launching a social media campaign and making media appearances. Video footage showed Goldberg-Polin injured by a grenade blast during the attack and later being seen in a video released by Hamas’ military wing.
His parents have been lobbying the Israeli government and the international community to focus on the plight of their son and the other hostages. Following Goldberg-Polin’s death, President Biden expressed devastation and outrage, highlighting the relentless efforts of his parents to secure his release.
Approximately 250 people were taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attack, and over 1,200 people were killed in Israel. More than 40,000 people have been killed in Israel’s military offensive in response to the terror attack. The families of the hostages continue to plead for the safe return of their loved ones, as they endure unimaginable anguish and misery.
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