Late on Saturday, President Biden and the Israeli military confirmed that the bodies of six hostages held by Hamas were recovered from a tunnel in Rafah, Gaza.
Among them was Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American who had been attending a peace music festival on October 7 when he was attacked.
Biden expressed deep sorrow and anger, highlighting Goldberg-Polin’s courageous actions during the attack.
The other victims were identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Master Sgt. Ori Danino.
Israeli forces reported that all six were killed just before their arrival. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Hamas would be held accountable for the murders and criticized the group for hindering negotiations.
Goldberg-Polin’s family, devastated by the news, thanked supporters and requested privacy.
The family had been vocal in their efforts to secure his release, including speaking at the Democratic National Convention. Earlier this year, a video released by Hamas showed Goldberg-Polin, who had lost part of his arm in the attack.
Calls for urgent negotiations have intensified as Israel’s tough stance on negotiations and military pressure continue.
The families of the hostages are pushing for a cease-fire and the return of their loved ones.
