The Israel Defense Forces announced on Friday that they have recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were kidnapped and killed by Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.
The army and the intelligence services successfully recovered the bodies of three hostages – Hanan Yablonka, Michel Nisenbaum, and Orion Hernandez Radoux – in a joint operation in northern Gaza. This area has experienced intense fighting in the past few days.
Tragically, Nisenbaum, 65, lost his life while on his way to look after his beloved granddaughter.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed his heartfelt condolences and reaffirmed his unwavering determination to ensure the safe return of all the hostages.
In a statement, he praised the IDF forces and security services for their courageous actions in enemy territory to bring the fallen soldiers back to their families for a Jewish burial.
“We have a national and moral duty to make every possible effort to bring back our hostages, both the ones who are still alive and those who have unfortunately passed away,” stated Netanyahu.
The Hostages Families Forum Headquarters, a coalition of hostage families advocating for their release, also known as Bring Them Home Now, expressed their deep sorrow upon the return of Michel, Hanan, and Orion. The forum represents 125 families of the hostages, who all share in the pain, sorrow, and endless worry caused by their loved ones’ captivity.
“The group emphasized that the return of their bodies serves as a powerful reminder that the State of Israel has a significant responsibility to promptly send negotiation teams with a strong demand to secure a swift release of all the hostages,” the group stated firmly.