Top Row: Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi, and Carmel Gat
Bottom Row: Ori Danino, Almog Sarusi, and Alex Lobanov
Courtesy of Goldberg-Polin family/Courtesy of Gat family/Hostages and Missing Families Forum
What We Know About the Six Hostages Killed by Hamas in Gaza
The tragic discovery of six hostages killed by Hamas in Gaza has intensified the ongoing crisis, bringing renewed scrutiny and sorrow to an already volatile situation. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Sunday that the bodies of these captives were found in an underground tunnel in Gaza, a grim confirmation of their fate.
Background and Circumstances
The hostages, including an Israeli American, were among more than 200 individuals taken by Hamas militants during their deadly cross-border assault on October 7. The attack, which targeted an Israeli music festival and a nearby farming community, resulted in significant casualties and kidnappings. The Hostages Families Forum, an organization dedicated to advocating for the captives and their families, has played a crucial role in highlighting their plight and pushing for their release.
According to the IDF, the hostages were “brutally” murdered shortly before their bodies were discovered. The remains were located approximately one kilometer from the tunnel where another hostage had been rescued alive earlier. Israeli officials revealed that three of the deceased hostages were expected to be released as part of an initial phase of a ceasefire agreement. However, their release was reportedly delayed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Profiles of the Victims
Here is a closer look at the six individuals whose lives were tragically cut short:
Hersh Goldberg-Polin
At 23, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli American, became one of the most recognizable faces of the hostage crisis. Captured at the Nova music festival, Goldberg-Polin’s harrowing experience, including his attempt to fend off Hamas militants, captured global attention. His parents, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, have been vocal advocates for securing the return of their son and other captives, meeting with U.S. officials and speaking at public forums. Goldberg-Polin, born in Oakland, California, immigrated to Israel with his family at the age of seven and was known for his love of soccer, music, and geography.
Alexander Lobanov
Alexander Lobanov, 32, was a father of two from Ashkelon, Israel. He was working as a bar manager at the Nova festival when he was abducted. Eyewitnesses reported that Lobanov played a significant role in evacuating people during the attack before being captured by Hamas fighters. His family, including his wife and two young children, mourns his loss deeply. His younger child was born during his captivity.
Carmel Gat
Carmel Gat, a 40-year-old occupational therapist from Tel Aviv, was abducted from her home in the border kibbutz of Be’eri. The kibbutz was one of the hardest-hit areas during the October 7 attack, with Hamas militants killing numerous residents and taking many others hostage. Gat was known for her compassion and dedication, providing support and solace to fellow captives through meditation and yoga. She was a passionate traveler and music lover, with a particular fondness for the band Radiohead.
Almog Sarusi
The 27-year-old Almog Sarusi was at the Nova music festival with his girlfriend when the attack occurred. Sarusi stayed by his girlfriend’s side after she was shot and severely injured, attempting to save her before being captured. His love for travel and music, particularly his enjoyment of playing guitar, was a cherished aspect of his life. His tragic end highlights the profound personal losses experienced by his loved ones.
Eden Yerushalmi
Eden Yerushalmi, 24, was working as a bartender at the Nova festival when the attack began. In her final moments, she sent distress messages to her family and spoke with her sisters, providing a heart-wrenching account of her ordeal. Known for her vibrant personality and enthusiasm for pilates and beach outings, Yerushalmi’s loss has deeply affected those who knew her.
Ori Danino
Ori Danino, 25, was the eldest of five siblings and had plans to study electrical engineering. He was kidnapped while trying to help others escape from the Nova festival. Described as ambitious, caring, and beloved by his family and friends, Danino’s death is a significant loss to those who knew him.
Impact and Responses
The deaths of these six hostages underscore the brutality of the ongoing conflict and the profound personal losses suffered by their families. As the situation continues to develop, the international community watches closely, hoping for resolution and justice amid such immense tragedy. The focus remains on addressing the humanitarian crisis and seeking accountability for the acts of violence that have resulted in these heartbreaking losses.