The parents of an American-Israeli hostage killed by Hamas are making a heartfelt plea for the urgent release of the remaining captives. Following the release of three visibly weakened Israeli hostages over the weekend, Rachel Goldberg-Polin and Jon Polin, whose son Hersh Goldberg-Polin was murdered by Hamas last August after nearly a year in captivity, expressed their gratitude for the efforts of former President Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff, while emphasizing the critical need to accelerate the hostage release process.
Speaking on "America's Newsroom," Rachel Goldberg-Polin stressed the urgency of the situation, noting the hostages' deteriorating health. She called for an expedited resolution, stating that the current timeline extending over several months is untenable given the hostages' fragile condition. Her husband, Jon Polin, echoed this sentiment, recalling the malnourished state of their son and five other hostages whose bodies were recovered by Israeli forces. He expressed confidence in Trump and Witkoff's involvement while reiterating the need for swift action.
Israeli captive Or Levy, recently released by Hamas, being escorted before handover. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
The recent release of Israeli civilians Eli Sharabi, Ohad Ben Ami, and Or Levy, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, marked the fifth such exchange since the current ceasefire began. The hostages' weakened state has ignited public outcry and intensified calls for the swift return of the remaining 76 captives.
Recently released Israeli captives (from left): Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levy. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)
Rachel Goldberg-Polin offered a message of hope to the remaining hostages and their families, assuring them of ongoing efforts to secure their release.
American hostages taken by Hamas. Hersh Goldberg-Polin (left) was killed in captivity. The others remain held hostage. (Fox News Photo)
Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages were tragically killed by Hamas last August shortly before Israeli forces reached their location. Forensic analysis indicated they were executed at close range after enduring nearly a year in captivity.
