On Wednesday evening, Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed that the bodies of hostages Youssef and Hamza Ziyadne were located during military operations in the Gaza Strip. This discovery follows their abduction by Hamas terrorists during the tragic events of October 7, 2023.
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The Discovery and Official Reactions
Israel Katz, in a statement shared by the Israeli Defense Ministry, expressed his deep condolences to the Ziyadne family. He acknowledged the grief following the discovery, stating, “We continue to do everything to fulfill our supreme moral obligation—the return of all the hostages, living and dead, to Israeli soil.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed his sorrow over the news, stating, “We hoped and worked for the safe return of the four members of the family held hostage by Hamas.” Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s ongoing commitment to returning all hostages, both alive and deceased, and thanked the IDF and the Israeli Security Agency for their determined efforts.
The Search and Discovery
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) confirmed that Youssef’s remains were located in a tunnel in the Rafah area of southern Gaza. While the death of Hamza had not been immediately confirmed, the findings in the tunnel raised serious concerns about his fate.
Ali Ziyadne, the brother of Youssef, spoke with deep sorrow, saying, “We wanted them to return to our family alive, but unfortunately, they returned dead. Aisha and her brother Bilal were waiting to embrace them. This is a difficult and shocking disaster.”
Background on the Ziyadne Family’s Abduction
Youssef Ziyadne, 53, along with his children Hamza (22), Bilal (18), and Aisha (17), were abducted by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 massacre while working in Kibbutz Holit, near the Gaza border. The family members were among the 1,200 people killed during the violent Hamas invasion. In the wake of the invasion, thousands were wounded, and over 250 individuals were taken as hostages, including several Bedouins like the Ziyadne family.
While Bilal and Aisha were released in a ceasefire agreement with Hamas in November 2023, Youssef and Hamza’s whereabouts remained unknown until this recent discovery.
Current Status of Hostages in Gaza
Israeli authorities estimate that there are still 98 hostages in Hamas captivity, including 94 who were abducted during the October 7 attacks. While 157 hostages have been returned or rescued, there are still 36 bodies believed to be held by Hamas. Among them are the remains of IDF soldiers Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul, who were taken in 2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Youssef and Hamza Ziyadne?
Youssef and Hamza were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists during the October 7, 2023, attack. Their bodies were recently discovered by the Israeli Defense Forces during military operations in Gaza.
Were any family members released?
Yes, Bilal and Aisha, two other children of Youssef, were released in a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel in November 2023.
How many hostages are still held by Hamas?
There are currently 98 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza, including 94 who were abducted during the October 7 attacks.
What efforts is Israel making to recover hostages?
Israel is continuing its efforts to bring all hostages, living and deceased, back to Israeli soil. The IDF and Israeli Security Agency are actively involved in these operations.
Conclusion
The discovery of Youssef and Hamza Ziyadne’s bodies marks a tragic moment for their family and Israel. The ongoing recovery efforts highlight the persistence and commitment of the Israeli Defense Forces in bringing all hostages back. While the search continues for other hostages, this painful moment serves as a reminder of the personal toll and the immense tragedy experienced by families affected by such conflicts.