What is it about
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that they have eliminated two Hamas terrorists responsible for holding and ultimately killing six Israeli hostages in Gaza.
Why it matters
This operation supports Israel’s ongoing efforts to bring justice for the victims of terrorism, emphasizing the nation’s resolve in safeguarding its citizens and combating terrorist threats. The elimination of these terrorists underscores the IDF’s commitment to tracking down and prosecuting those involved in the execution of these heinous murders.
Details
IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed on Saturday that forces acting on DNA evidence gathered from the scene eliminated the two Hamas terrorists who were responsible for holding six Israeli hostages.
“This evening, we updated the families of Hersh, Eden, Ori, Alex, Almog, and Carmel, may their memories be a blessing, that we eliminated two terrorists who had held them hostage in a tunnel near Rafah,” Hagari stated. He added that IDF troops from the 162nd Division identified and neutralized the perpetrators during an encounter as they emerged from an underground tunnel shaft shortly after the hostages’ bodies were discovered.
The evidence linked the neutralized terrorists to the location where the victims—Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi, Uri Danino, Almog Sarusi, Carmel Gat, and Alex Lobanov—were held and ultimately killed.
Emotional Response
Uri Danino’s partner, Liel Avraham, remarked, “We had no doubt that the IDF would hold the murderers accountable. Their elimination is a moral obligation, though it doesn’t provide complete satisfaction or comfort. They were supposed to come back alive.”
Next Steps
Hagari emphasized the IDF’s commitment to pursuing every individual responsible for the murders. “Should we obtain further information, we will first update the families and then the public. We will pursue and reach everyone responsible for this heinous murder, and we will not stop until we reach them all,” he noted.
Background
The bodies of the six hostages were found on August 31. According to the IDF investigation, Hamas lookouts ordered the execution of the hostages when soldiers were seen approaching the tunnel. The terrorists murdered the hostages at close range to avoid capture.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.