Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under intense scrutiny following the discovery of six hostages’ bodies in a tunnel beneath Rafah, Gaza, on August 31. The hostages included US citizen Hersh Goldberg-Polin, as well as Eden Yerushalmi, Carmel Gat, Almog Sarusi, Alex Lubnov, and Ori Danino. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the recovery of these bodies, which were among the 250 people abducted during a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Biden Promises Hamas Would Be Held Accountable
US President Joe Biden confirmed the recovery of Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s body and expressed profound sorrow over the tragic development. “Earlier today, in a tunnel under the city of Rafah, Israeli forces recovered six bodies of hostages held by Hamas,” Biden stated. He promised that Hamas would be held accountable for these actions.
Protests Erupt In Israel
The Israeli military’s announcement has ignited protests within Israel. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized Netanyahu for allegedly sabotaging potential deals for the hostages’ release. This criticism was voiced as the Prime Minister canceled his planned appearance at the opening of the academic year at Guatemala Elementary School in Jerusalem.
Over 40, 000 Palestinians Have Lost Their Life
The hostage crisis began with a brutal Hamas assault that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis. In response to the ongoing conflict, over 40,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives. Although over 100 hostages were freed during a ceasefire last year, about 100 remain in captivity, with dozens reported killed.
Families Of The Hostages Express Grief And Anger
The families of the deceased hostages have been vocal in their grief and anger. Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s parents, who previously spoke at the Democratic National Convention, joined protests near the Gaza border. They called for action and a ceasefire, expressing their heartbreak and demanding justice. In response to the crisis, Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai announced a city-wide strike to support the hostages’ families. Other municipalities, including Kfar Saba and Givatayim, are also joining the strike.
Netanyahu Apologises, Activists Remain Dissatisfied
Prime Minister Netanyahu has apologized for the inability to rescue the hostages, expressing regret to the families of the victims. However, his apology has not quelled the rising dissatisfaction among the public and activist groups. They continue to call for a ceasefire and a reassessment of the government’s approach to the conflict.
Hamas Blames The US, Critises The Israeli Government
As the situation remains tense, international leaders, including President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, have condemned Hamas and vowed to continue efforts for a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Hamas has blamed the US for the ongoing conflict and criticized the Israeli government’s handling of the hostage situation. The crisis underscores the deepening humanitarian and political challenges in the region, with calls for urgent and effective action from all sides.
The IDF confirms it retrieved from Gaza the bodies of 6 hostages who were kidnapped by Hamas on October 7.
Hersh Goldberg, 23 🕯️
Eden Yerushalmi, 24 🕯️
Carmel Gat, 39 🕯️
Almog Sarusi, 26 🕯️
Alex Lubnov, 32 🕯️
Ori Danino, 25 🕯️
May their memories be a blessing 💔 pic.twitter.com/XucTjB6Yj0
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) September 1, 2024