During the Democratic National Convention, the emotional speech delivered by the mother of American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin shed light on the harrowing ordeal faced by her son. Hersh, along with his friend Aner, found themselves caught in a dangerous situation during a music festival in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, when rockets began to fall.
Seeking refuge in a small bomb shelter along with 27 other festival-goers, tragedy struck as Hersh's left forearm, his dominant arm, was tragically blown off during the chaos. Subsequently, he was forcibly taken away from his life, becoming a victim of the violence that unfolded.
Addressing the audience, Jon Polin, Hersh's father, emphasized the human aspect of the situation, stating that the plight of their son and other hostages should transcend political boundaries. He expressed gratitude towards the countless individuals in the United States and around the world who have extended their love, support, and strength to the families affected by such tragedies.
In a poignant message directed towards her son, Hersh's mother conveyed words of love and encouragement, urging him to stay strong and persevere through the unimaginable circumstances he now finds himself in. The heartfelt plea resonated with the audience, highlighting the human toll of conflicts and the enduring hope for the safe return of those held captive.
