The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) have confirmed the identification of Hamza al-Ziyadne, a hostage held by Hamas, whose body was recently recovered. Hamza, abducted in October 2023, was found alongside the remains of his father, Youssef, in an underground tunnel in the Rafah region of the Gaza Strip.
In a statement issued on Friday, the IDF explained that the bodies underwent forensic analysis at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, with assistance from the Israel Police. Upon completion of the identification process, the Ziyadne family was notified that Hamza had been killed while in Hamas captivity.
Recovery and Remembrance
The bodies of Hamza and Youssef were retrieved during recent IDF and ISA operations and returned to Israel. The Hostages Families Forum expressed profound sorrow, recalling Hamza’s love for nature and animals and his warm relationships with friends and family. He leaves behind his wife and two children.
“We are heartbroken once again upon receiving the news of Hamza al-Ziyadne’s murder in Hamas captivity,” the forum stated. “The prolonged identification process is a painful reminder of the urgency to bring the deceased home for burial.”
The forum also highlighted the broader tragedy of the abduction. Four members of the Ziyadne family were taken hostage, but only two returned alive. The forum expressed frustration, asserting that earlier agreements could have saved Hamza and Youssef.
Calls for Action
“The time and conditions are ripe for all hostages to return – bringing the living home for rehabilitation and the deceased for proper burial,” the forum urged. “Negotiations must be expedited to secure an immediate deal for their return. This historic opportunity should not be missed.”
Hamza and Youssef were abducted alive from Kibbutz Holit on October 7, 2023, along with Youssef’s young children, Aisha and Bilal. The children were released in a hostage deal in November 2023, 55 days after their abduction.
Commitment to Justice
The IDF and ISA extended their condolences to the Ziyadne family and reaffirmed their determination to continue efforts to recover all hostages. "Our commitment to bringing everyone home remains unwavering," the agencies stated.
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