In a devastating turn of events, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American-Israeli citizen, was among six hostages brutally murdered by Hamas as Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) closed in for a rescue operation in the tunnels of Rafah, Gaza.
The Republican Interest reports that the confirmation of his death came from his family early Sunday morning.
Goldberg-Polin, who was taken captive during a music festival on October 7, 2023, lost part of his left arm in the initial attack. After being held for nearly 11 months, his body was recovered alongside the others in what the IDF describes as a senseless act of violence committed by Hamas just moments before they could be saved.
Fox News also reported that the IDF spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated, “According to our initial assessment, they were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists shortly before we reached them.” The other victims included Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Master Sergeant Ori Danino.
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu expressed his profound sorrow, declaring, “He who murders abductees does not want a deal. We are having a difficult day, and the heart of the entire nation is torn.” He emphasized the shock felt across the nation at the cold-blooded murders.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog extended his condolences, stating, “I embrace their families with all my heart and apologize for failing to bring them home safely.”
Goldberg-Polin’s family, who immigrated to Israel from the U.S. when he was just seven years old, had tirelessly campaigned for his release, engaging with world leaders including those in the Biden administration. His parents, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg, along with his two sisters, now mourn the loss of their beloved son and brother.
U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his devastation and outrage over the tragedy. “It is as tragic as it is reprehensible,” he remarked, vowing that “Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes” and reaffirming the commitment to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
Vice President Kamala Harris also offered her thoughts, condemning Hamas’s actions and emphasizing the risk they pose not only to Israelis but to American citizens in the region. “Hamas is an evil terrorist organization,” she stated. “With these murders, Hamas has even more American blood on its hands.”
As the situation unfolds, the collective grief and anger felt by families, friends, and nations resonate, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and accountability in the ongoing conflict.
