Israel Recovers Bodies of Two Hostages from Gaza
Israel has recovered the bodies of two hostages, Judih Weinstein and Gad Haggai, who were captured by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 attack. Both victims, in their early 70s and residents of Kibbutz Nir Oz, had been declared dead in December 2023.
Prime Minister’s Statement
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences in an official statement: “Together with all the citizens of Israel, my wife and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the dear families. Our hearts ache for the most terrible loss. May their memory be blessed.”
Details of the Recovery Operation
The bodies were retrieved through a joint operation conducted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet internal security agency in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza. The precise details of the operation have not been disclosed, but it was coordinated using intelligence provided by Shin Bet.
Context of the Hostage Situation
- Judih Weinstein and Gad Haggai were captured when Hamas launched a cross-border assault on October 7, 2023.
- The attack resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures.
- Weinstein managed to call emergency services during the attack, reporting that both she and Haggai had been shot.
- The couple left behind four children and seven grandchildren.
Current Status of Hostages and Ongoing Conflict
Following the recovery of these two bodies, Israeli authorities estimate that 56 hostages remain in Gaza, with fewer than half believed to be alive. The October 7 attack initiated Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in more than 54,000 Palestinian fatalities, according to local health sources.
