Thousands Mourn Hostage Killed by Hamas

Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American-Israeli among the six hostages killed by Hamas, was laid to rest in Jerusalem, attracting thousands of mourners, including dignitaries and ordinary Israelis. Goldberg-Polin's body was found in a Gaza tunnel, and Israeli officials reported that he and the other hostages were shot at close range. His parents, Jon and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, who had become prominent advocates for the hostages' release, spoke emotionally at the funeral, expressing both grief and relief that his ordeal had ended. Israeli President Isaac Herzog publicly apologized for the state's failure to protect and rescue the hostages. The funeral has sparked widespread protests in Israel, with citizens demanding more action from their government. Mourners hoped that Goldberg-Polin's death would catalyze renewed efforts for a ceasefire and the release of remaining hostages.