The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the recovery of the bodies of six hostages taken by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. According to the IDF, the bodies were found on Saturday in an underground tunnel in Rafah, southern Gaza. The victims were identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Master Sgt. Ori Danino. IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that initial assessments suggest the hostages were “brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists shortly before we reached them.”

A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rishq, denied these claims, blaming Israel for the deaths due to its refusal to agree to a ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to pursue those responsible for the killings, reaffirming his government’s commitment to securing the release of the remaining hostages while ensuring national security. “Whoever murders hostages does not want a deal,” he stated.

The Hostages Families Forum, a group representing the families of the hostages, accused the Israeli government of delaying a potential deal, which they believe led to the deaths of the hostages who endured months of abuse and starvation. They have called for public protests in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities to demand a hostage exchange deal.

The IDF confirmed that the hostages, taken on October 7, 2023, were killed by Hamas, and their bodies have been returned to Israel. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed deep sorrow, stating, “The heart of an entire nation is shattered to pieces with the news of their killing,” and extended condolences to the families, acknowledging the failure to bring the hostages home safely.