Hamas released a hostage video on Wednesday showing an Israeli-American man who was abducted in the attack that sparked the conflict in Gaza. The video featured Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was among the many people taken captive by the militants in southern Israel on Oct. 7.
In the video, Goldberg-Polin accused the Israeli government of neglecting the hostages held by Hamas. He also claimed that approximately 70 captives had been killed during Israel's bombing campaign. However, the authenticity of this claim could not be independently verified. Goldberg-Polin, 23, was seen missing part of his left arm in the video.
Goldberg-Polin was attending the Tribe of Nova music festival when the attack occurred. Witnesses reported that he lost part of his arm when grenades were thrown into a shelter where he sought refuge. He was then taken by Hamas, with a tourniquet tied around his injured arm.
Goldberg-Polin's family has been actively seeking his release, with his mother, Rachel Goldberg, engaging with world leaders and addressing the United Nations. The video, although undated, seemed to reference the ongoing Jewish holiday of Passover.
Following the release of the video, protests erupted in Jerusalem, urging the government to intensify efforts to secure the hostages' release. Many Israelis gathered outside the Prime Minister's residence, demanding action to bring back the captives, including Goldberg-Polin.
Hamas and other militants abducted around 250 individuals in the Oct. 7 attack, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians. It is estimated that around 100 hostages are still being held, along with the remains of about 30 others. Most of the captives were released in November in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Efforts to negotiate a cease-fire and secure the release of the remaining hostages have faced challenges. Hamas has linked the hostages' release to the end of the conflict, while Israel remains committed to dismantling Hamas and bringing all captives home.
The situation continues to unfold, with international mediators involved in ongoing discussions. The families of the hostages, including Goldberg-Polin's, are anxiously awaiting their loved ones' safe return.
For more updates on the conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
