The parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an American killed last weekend in Gaza while being held hostage by Hamas, have made an emotional plea for the world to focus on securing a cease-fire. Their son, Hersh, was one of six hostages killed before Israeli forces could rescue them. A video released by Hamas, showing Hersh before his death, has intensified their call for action.
Final Hamas video of slain hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin should be a ‘wake-up call,’ parents say https://t.co/sigXrcwXjP
— Ruthie’s Daughter Mind Travels @ESDRuthieDa (@ESDRuthieDa) September 6, 2024
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who had been held for nearly 11 months after being taken hostage during the Supernova music festival, lost part of his arm in an explosion during Hamas’ attacks on October 7. His parents, Rachel Goldberg and Jon Polin, are grieving during the traditional seven-day Jewish mourning period but felt compelled to speak out after the release of the video.
Despite the devastating loss, the couple remains advocates for a ceasefire and the return of hostages still held by Hamas. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the families of those still in captivity, has accused Hamas of using the videos to inflict “psychological terror” on the families. Hersh’s parents, however, have expressed that they are not opposed to the footage being shared, as they believe it could rally global support for urgent action to free the remaining hostages.
Goldberg and Polin have also called for a broader compromise to end the suffering for all affected by the conflict, including the Palestinians in Gaza. The violence since Hamas’ initial attacks on October 7 has claimed the lives of more than 40,800 people in Gaza, according to local reports, and the parents of Hersh hope his death will serve as a turning point for peace.
Hamas releases video of slain hostage and former Virginian Hersh Goldberg-Polin. ‘I miss you’ https://t.co/2SWFE192Ok
— GoDanRiver (@GoDanRiver) September 6, 2024
Despite calls for resolution, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained a firm stance, rejecting external pressure to withdraw troops from a key area along the Gaza-Egypt border. This has slowed progress toward a ceasefire, even as international figures like U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicate that much of the groundwork for an agreement has already been laid.
Key Points:
i. Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s parents have called for immediate action toward a ceasefire following the release of a video showing their son before his death.
ii. Hersh was among six hostages killed by Hamas last weekend, after being held captive for nearly 11 months.
iii. The family is advocating for compromise and negotiations to end the conflict, which has resulted in extensive loss of life in Gaza.
iv. Despite international efforts, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remains firm in his stance on maintaining a military presence in a contested area.
v. The parents of Hersh hope his death will serve as a catalyst for peace amidst the ongoing violence.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
