Israel Hostages: Bodies of 2 Recovered – Hamas Attack Update
- Israeli forces have recovered the bodies of Judith Weinstein, 70, and Gad Haggai, 72, who were killed during the Hamas attack on Oct.7, 2023.
- Weinstein and Haggai were residents of Kibbutz Nir Oz.
- The role of hostages has been central to discussions since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. Hamas took 251 hostages during the October attack.
Israeli forces recovered the bodies of Judith Weinstein and Gad Haggai, victims of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, marking a somber milestone in the ongoing conflict. This operation, conducted in Khan Younis, brings further tragedy to the forefront as families grapple with immense loss. The couple, residents of Kibbutz Nir Oz, were killed during the initial assault, highlighting the brutality of the Hamas incursion. As the hostage situation remains a central concern, with 56 individuals still captive, News Directory 3 continues to track the developments. the recovery underscores the relentless efforts to bring all hostages home and address the devastating impact of the war. Discover what’s next as the conflict evolves.
Israel Recovers Bodies of Two Hamas Hostages in Gaza
Updated June 5, 2025
Israeli forces have recovered the bodies of Judith Weinstein, 70, and Gad Haggai, 72, who were killed during the Hamas attack on Oct.7, 2023. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the remains were returned to Israel following an operation by the Israel Defense Forces and the Shin Bet internal security agency.
Weinstein and Haggai were residents of Kibbutz Nir Oz. They were killed during the initial Hamas assault,in which militants crossed the border and attacked army bases and communities. Weinstein contacted emergency services early that morning, reporting that she and her husband had been shot.
The role of hostages has been central to discussions since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. Hamas took 251 hostages during the October attack. As of today, 56 remain captive, with about a third believed to still be alive. Israeli forces have rescued eight living hostages and recovered the bodies of others.
The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reports that more than 54,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict. The Israeli military estimates it has killed about 20,000 Hamas fighters, while reporting about 3,000 casualties among its soldiers.
“Together with all the citizens of Israel, my wife and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the dear families. our hearts ache for the most terrible loss. May thier memory be blessed,” Netanyahu said.
What’s next
The recovery of Weinstein and Haggai underscores the ongoing efforts to locate and return hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attack, as the conflict and the hostage situation continue to impact the region.