Israel has confirmed the deaths of six more hostages taken in the 7 October attack by Hamas, after their bodies were found in a Gaza tunnel during military operations. The victims were identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Master Sergeant Ori Danino. The Israeli military recovered their bodies and returned them to Israeli territory.
President Joe Biden confirmed that one of the hostages was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whose family had announced his death earlier. The family thanked the public for their support and requested privacy during this difficult time. Goldberg-Polin’s parents had been advocating for their son’s release and had met with world leaders to seek help.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant casualties, with over 40,000 Palestinians killed and 94,000 injured since the start of the military offensive on 7 October. Clashes between Israeli troops and Palestinian fighters have continued in the West Bank, with ongoing military operations in the city of Jenin.
President Biden expressed optimism about reaching a ceasefire and ending the conflict, stating that negotiations were progressing towards an agreement. The IDF and Israeli security forces are working to bring home all remaining hostages, with a focus on securing their release as soon as possible. Hamas leaders will be held accountable for their crimes, according to the US president.
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