On Sunday, Israel confirmed the deaths of six hostages taken by Hamas during the surprise attack on October 7. The attack, which targeted southern Israel, resulted in the death of 1,200 people, with about 250 hostages captured. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has claimed over 40,000 Palestinian lives, according to recent estimates.

 

President Herzog’s Statement

Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed deep sorrow and commitment to continue the fight against Hamas while focusing on rescuing the remaining hostages. “The heart of an entire nation is shattered to pieces,” Herzog stated. He apologized to the victims’ families, acknowledging the failure to bring their loved ones home safely.

 

Profiles of the Deceased Hostages

1. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, 23: A California native who had moved to Israel, Goldberg-Polin was seized at the Nova music festival. His parents, Jon and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, had been active in raising global awareness about the hostage crisis. They confirmed his death just before the IDF released the names of the victims.

 

2. Eden Yerushalmi, 24: A Tel Aviv native studying to become a pilates instructor, Yerushalmi was working at the Nova festival when the attack occurred. She last communicated with her family via video, expressing concern about her safety before being captured by Hamas.

 

3. Carmel Gat, 40: An occupational therapist from Tel Aviv, Gat was staying with her parents in kibbutz Be’eri during the attack. She was kidnapped from her home, and her mother was killed. Released hostages described her as a “guardian angel” for her role in helping them survive captivity.

 

4. Alexander Lobanov, 33: From Ashkelon, Lobanov was a bar manager at the Nova festival and had helped evacuate people before fleeing into the Be’eri forest. He was later captured by Hamas gunmen. Lobanov’s family welcomed a baby while he was in captivity.

 

5. Almog Sarusi, 27: Known for his vibrant personality and love of travel, Sarusi was at the festival with his girlfriend, who was killed during the attack. Sarusi stayed by her side until he was taken hostage.

 

6. Ori Danino, 25: A Jerusalem native and aspiring electrical engineer, Danino was helping others escape the festival when he was captured. He was remembered for his ambition and love for nature.

The confirmation of these deaths has intensified the sorrow and resolve within Israel as the nation grapples with the ongoing conflict and the tragic loss of its citizens.