Note: The video in the player above is from a previous report regarding Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
Following the death of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a US-Israeli citizen kidnapped in the October 7 Hamas terror attack in Israel, President Joe Biden issued a statement, saying in part that he was “devastated and outraged.”
The family of Goldberg Polin, 23, announced his death in a statement Saturday night, writing: “It is with broken hearts that the Goldberg-Polin family is devastated to announce the passing of their beloved son and brother, Hersh. The family thanks you all for your love and support and asks for your privacy at this time.”
Goldberg’s parents were among the hostages’ relatives who had already met with members of the Biden administration to try to secure their loved one’s release.
Read Biden’s full statement below:
“Earlier today, in a tunnel under the city of Rafah, Israeli forces recovered the bodies of six hostages held by Hamas. We now have confirmation that one of the hostages killed by these Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
I am devastated and outraged. Hersh was among the innocents brutally attacked while attending a peace music festival in Israel on October 7. He lost his arm helping friends and strangers in the savage Hamas massacre. He had just turned 23. He was planning to travel the world. I have come to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They were courageous, wise, and determined, even when they endured the unimaginable. They were tireless and unwavering advocates for their son and all the hostages held in unconscionable conditions. I admire them and grieve with them more deeply than words can express. I know that all Americans tonight will be praying for them, as will Jill and I. I worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh home safely, and I am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible. Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will continue to work around the clock to reach an agreement to secure the release of the remaining hostages.“
