Israeli Military Recover Bodies of Two Hostages in Gaza After Hamas Attack

Israeli forces have recovered the remains of Judi Weinstein Haggai and her husband Gadi Haggai, two hostages taken by Hamas during a deadly attack last year. Their families expressed grief but welcomed the closure that comes with their return for burial. The Israeli government continues to seek the release of remaining hostages amidst ongoing violence in the region.

The Israeli military has announced the recovery of the bodies of two hostages, Judi Weinstein Haggai, 70, and her husband Gadi Haggai, 72, who were taken during the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. According to military officials, their remains were found in the Khan Younis area of Gaza and subsequently returned to Israel for forensic identification.

The Haggai couple, who held dual citizenship in Israel and Canada, were reportedly killed by members of the Mujahideen Brigades during their abduction from Kibbutz Nir Oz. As the conflict escalates, current estimates suggest that 56 hostages remain in the hands of Hamas, with reports indicating that at least 20 are still alive.

In response to the news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended condolences to the bereaved families, emphasizing the nation's mourning and determination to secure the return of all hostages, both deceased and alive. “Our hearts grieve over this terrible loss. May their memories be blessed,” Netanyahu stated, while also commending the military personnel involved in the operation.

The families of Judi and Gadi Haggai expressed a mix of sorrow and relief in their statement, recounting how the couple was last seen leaving for a walk on that fateful day. "We welcome the closure and their return to a proper burial at home, in Israel," they remarked.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has called for immediate negotiations to arrange a new ceasefire with Hamas to facilitate the release of the remaining hostages. They voiced the sentiment of many Israelis who hope for a timely resolution to the hostage situation, urging leaders to act swiftly.

Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 54,600 deaths in Gaza since the outbreak of war about 20 months ago, following the unprecedented attack that resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities in Israel.