On Monday, a somber gathering in Jerusalem commemorated Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old Israeli-American among six hostages executed by Hamas. The funeral, held at a cemetery in the capital, was attended by thousands of mourners, many waving Israeli flags and donning the colors of Hersh’s beloved soccer team.
In a moving eulogy, Hersh’s father, Jon Goldberg-Polin, expressed deep sorrow: “We all failed you. Maybe your death is the catalyst that will help bring home the 101 other hostages.”
His mother, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, shared a poignant message, feeling a mix of relief and sorrow as she addressed her son: “Finally, you are free!” She also expressed regret over not being able to save him, pleading for his forgiveness.
Rachel Goldberg-Polin says goodbye to her only son Hersh 💔: “Ok sweet boy, go now on your journey. I hope it’s as good as the trips you dreamed about because finally, my sweet boy, finally, finally, finally, finally you are free.” pic.twitter.com/9pYbMX6YhJ
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) September 2, 2024
Israeli President Isaac Herzog attended the service, expressing condolences and seeking forgiveness for failing to bring Hersh home alive. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation afterward, also asked for public understanding amidst growing frustrations over the government’s inability to secure a hostage deal.
Born in California and raised in Jerusalem, Hersh garnered significant media attention due to his parents’ relentless advocacy, including high-profile events and speeches. His remains, found in a Gaza tunnel, highlighted the soaring tensions surrounding the hostage situation.
Amid ongoing negotiations, Netanyahu attributed the hostage deaths to Hamas, emphasizing that their actions show a disregard for peace. The announcement of the hostages’ deaths sparked protests across Israel, with many citizens blaming the government for the stalled negotiations.
The U.S. government also voiced dissatisfaction, with President Biden acknowledging the pain of Hersh’s parents and suggesting that not enough is being done to secure hostages’ release. He and Vice President Kamala Harris held meetings with the U.S. hostage negotiation team to urge immediate action.
Today, @POTUS and I met with the U.S. hostage deal negotiation team. The murder of Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages was a brutal, barbaric act by Hamas terrorists. As @POTUS said, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. pic.twitter.com/HCX95DWk4a
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 2, 2024
Following the tragic news, families of hostages called out Netanyahu, aligning with Biden’s viewpoint that prompt action is essential to prevent further losses. Protests unfolded in major cities as citizens voiced their frustration over the slow pace of negotiations.
Meanwhile, the British government announced a suspension of arms exports to Israel, signaling a growing impatience from allies regarding the ongoing conflict.