Hamas has released a video of renowned Israeli American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin. The video, the first sign of life since Goldberg-Polin’s capture on October 7th, shows him missing part of his left arm and speaking under duress. In the video, Goldberg-Polin accuses the Israeli government of abandoning its citizens held hostage by Hamas and claims that 70 captives have been killed in Israeli airstrikes. His claims could not be independently verified.
Goldberg-Polin, 23, was captured at the Tribe of Nova music festival when Hamas launched an attack from nearby Gaza. Witnesses said he lost part of his arm when attackers tossed grenades into a shelter where he had taken refuge.
The video’s release date is unclear, but Goldberg-Polin appears to reference the Jewish holiday of Passover, which began on Monday. His family gave permission for the video to be published.
Goldberg-Polin’s parents, Rachel Goldberg and Jon Polin, are Chicago natives. Rachel Goldberg has met with world leaders and addressed the United Nations. Her mother still lives downtown near Navy Pier, and Polin’s mother lives in Evanston.
Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., stated that of the 12 U.S. citizens captured by Hamas, five have Illinois connections, including Goldberg-Polin. Natalie and Judith Raanan, an Evanston daughter and mother, were released by Hamas on October 20th.
Hostages’ families have criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for not doing enough to secure their relatives’ release. Goldberg-Polin is one of the most recognized captives, with posters of his image displayed across Israel.
