The Israeli Defense Forces have confirmed the recovery of the bodies of two hostages, Judi and Gadi Haggai, taken during a distressing Hamas-led attack on southern Israel earlier this month.
Bodies of Hostages Judi and Gadi Haggai Recovered in Gaza

Bodies of Hostages Judi and Gadi Haggai Recovered in Gaza
Israeli military announces recovery of two hostages amidst ongoing conflict and calls for ceasefire
In a recent statement, Israeli military officials revealed that the bodies of Judi Weinstein Haggai, a 70-year-old Israeli-American and Canadian citizen, and her husband Gadi Haggai, 72, were found in the southern Gaza region following their abduction during an assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz. The couple was reportedly killed by members of the Mujahideen Brigades on October 7, 2023, and their remains have been returned to Israel for forensic verification.
The troubling reality continues to unfold with reports indicating that there are still 56 hostages in Hamas captivity, some of whom are feared to be alive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly expressed his condolences to the Haggai family, emphasizing the government's commitment to securing the release of all hostages—both living and deceased.
The couple's family has shared their grief, noting that the Haggais "went out for a walk on the morning of that cursed Saturday and never returned." They welcomed the return of their loved ones for a proper burial, highlighting the importance of closure in this tragic situation.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged the government to pursue a new ceasefire with Hamas to ensure the return of all remaining hostages. They stated, "There is no need to wait another 608 agonizing days for this," emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the public's support for a swift resolution.
In response to the unprecedented attack nearly 20 months ago, which left approximately 1,200 dead and 251 taken hostage, Israel initiated a military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 54,607 casualties have been reported in Gaza since the onset of this conflict.
The troubling reality continues to unfold with reports indicating that there are still 56 hostages in Hamas captivity, some of whom are feared to be alive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly expressed his condolences to the Haggai family, emphasizing the government's commitment to securing the release of all hostages—both living and deceased.
The couple's family has shared their grief, noting that the Haggais "went out for a walk on the morning of that cursed Saturday and never returned." They welcomed the return of their loved ones for a proper burial, highlighting the importance of closure in this tragic situation.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged the government to pursue a new ceasefire with Hamas to ensure the return of all remaining hostages. They stated, "There is no need to wait another 608 agonizing days for this," emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the public's support for a swift resolution.
In response to the unprecedented attack nearly 20 months ago, which left approximately 1,200 dead and 251 taken hostage, Israel initiated a military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 54,607 casualties have been reported in Gaza since the onset of this conflict.