Israeli Forces Recover Bodies of Hostages Killed by Hamas

The Israeli military has announced the recovery of the bodies of two Israelis who were taken hostage and killed during the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The victims, Judi Weinstein Haggai, 70, a dual US-Canadian citizen, and her husband Gadi Haggai, 72, were murdered amid the violence that erupted during an attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz. Their remains were found in the Khan Younis region of Gaza and have since been returned to Israel for forensic examination.

The couple's families expressed deep sorrow over their loss, recounting how they had gone out for a walk that fateful morning and never returned. "We welcome the closure and their return to a proper burial at home, in Israel," they said in a statement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his condolences, praising military forces for their efforts in recovering the bodies and pledged to continue the fight to return all hostages, both living and deceased.

As the conflict escalates, there are reportedly still 56 hostages held by Hamas, with at least 20 confirmed alive. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged government officials to negotiate a ceasefire with Hamas to facilitate the return of the remaining captives, highlighting the urgent need for resolution in the protracted conflict. Since the onset of hostilities, over 54,607 people in Gaza have lost their lives, according to local health authorities.