Hamas releases video of American-Israeli hostage in first proof of his survival after October attack
Israeli-American hostage
Hamas released a video featuring Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin on Wednesday (Apr 24), marking the initial evidence of his survival after being severely injured during his capture on October 7.
Goldberg-Polin, aged 23 at the time, was seized from the Nova music festival amidst Hamas' attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 casualties and the abduction of more than 200 individuals.
In the video, Goldberg-Polin is seen missing a substantial portion of his left arm. Previous footage from October 7 showed him being taken hostage with his arm severely wounded.
Goldberg-Polin is seated, occasionally gesturing with his injured arm as he addresses the camera. He introduces himself, providing his date of birth and parents' names, in the video. He mentioned that nearly 200 days have passed since he was captured which indicates that the video was shot before April 23, the 200th day of the war.
Goldberg-Polin, like other Israeli hostages in Hamas propaganda videos, voiced criticism towards the Israeli government, particularly Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He urged his family to remain resilient and extended wishes, especially for the Jewish holiday of Passover.
The Biden administration received the video two days before its public release andinitiated contact with Goldberg-Polin's family. The FBI is currently analysing the video for potential evidence related to Goldberg-Polin's captivity.
Goldberg-Polin's parents expressed relief at seeing him alive but voiced concern for his well-being and that of other hostages.
His family demanded immediate action for his release, along with other hostages still detained in Gaza.
“Seeing the video of Hersh today is overwhelming. We are relieved to see him alive, but we are also concerned about his health and wellbeing as well as that of all the other hostages and all of those suffering in this region,” his parents said in a video statement.
They added, “Hersh, we heard your voice today for the first time in 201 days. If you can hear us, know that we love you. Stay strong, survive.”
(With inputs from agencies)
