First American Hostage Killed by Hamas, Israel Community Reports
Israeli-American Man Kidnapped by Hamas Terrorists Found Dead
In a tragic turn of events, Gadi Haggai, a 73-year-old Israeli-American man who was shot and taken captive by Hamas terrorists on October 7, has been confirmed dead. The tight-knit community of Kibbutz Nir Oz, which was severely affected by the attack, announced the heartbreaking news on Friday. Haggai’s murder marks the first known American casualty resulting from the October 7 attack, as reported by The Times Of Israel.
Haggai and his wife, Judi Weinstein, 70, were out for a morning walk when the attack occurred. Both were shot and subsequently taken captive, with Haggai losing his life and Weinstein remaining in the hands of Hamas, still held hostage in Gaza.
A Life Cut Short, A Family in Mourning
“We are filled with great sorrow by the murder of Gad Haggai, an American-Israeli citizen. He was a father of four, a grandfather of seven, and a cherished member of his beloved kibbutz, Kibbutz Nir Oz. He will be remembered as a gifted man, with a sharp intellect and a passion for wind instruments, which he played since childhood,” expressed Haggai’s grieving family in a statement, as reported by Haaretz. “He was a talented chef, and alongside his wife, Judi, he lived a healthy, active lifestyle. We mourn the loss of our father and grandfather, and we continue to hope and pray that his body will be returned to us and that Judi is still alive and we will be reunited soon.”
The family’s statement also emphasized the urgent need for action, urging leaders to do everything in their power to bring their parents home and highlighting the significance of Haggai’s death in reinforcing the importance of rescuing all hostages.
On the day of the attack, Haggai and Weinstein sought refuge in a field. Weinstein managed to contact a member of the kibbutz, informing them of their injuries – she had been shot in the arm, while Haggai suffered a gunshot wound to the head. Tragically, an ambulance dispatched to their location was attacked and unable to reach them. Since then, the couple had been missing, presumed to be held captive in Gaza, according to the New York Post.
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Although Haggai and Weinstein had been living in Kibbutz Nir Oz, Haggai had spent the majority of his life in the United States before relocating to Israel approximately 30 years ago. His mother hailed from Manhattan, while his father was from Detroit. Haggai leaves behind four children and seven grandchildren, his memory forever etched in the hearts of his loved ones.
How has the community of Kibbutz Nir Oz come together to support each other after the death of Gadi Haggai?
-by-hamas-in-gaza-appeal-for-action-o-827611075″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Haaretz.
The news of Haggai’s death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community of Kibbutz Nir Oz. The residents, devastated by the loss, are now coming together to mourn and support one another during this difficult time. Haggai was not only a loved member of the community but also a respected figure who contributed significantly to the kibbutz’s development over the years.
Meanwhile, Weinstein’s fate remains uncertain. As the only witness to the attack, her testimony and any information she can provide regarding her captivity and the terrorists responsible are crucial to the ongoing investigation. Her family, along with concerned authorities, continue to demand her safe and immediate release.
The abduction and murder of Gadi Haggai serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region. It highlights the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect innocent civilians and prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
The International Community Reacts
The international community has expressed its shock and condemnation following the news of Haggai’s death. Leaders from various countries, including the United States, have expressed their condolences and solidarity with the Haggai family and the Israeli people.
The United Nations, through a statement by its Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, condemned the attack and emphasized the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable. Guterres also called for the immediate release of Judi Weinstein and for all efforts to be made to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians in the region.
In response to this tragic event, Israeli security forces have increased their presence and conducted extensive searches in the Gaza Strip, aiming to locate and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The Israeli government has also called for international support in condemning this act of terrorism and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The kidnapping and murder of Gadi Haggai by Hamas terrorists is a heinous act that must be met with resolute condemnation by the international community. The targeting of innocent civilians undermines the principles of peace and coexistence that people strive for. It is imperative that all countries unite to combat terrorism and ensure the safety of their citizens.
As the investigation continues and the community mourns the loss of a beloved member, it is a grim reminder of the enduring threat posed by terrorism. The memory of Gadi Haggai will live on, not only in the hearts of his family and community but also as a testament to the resilience and determination of those affected to continue their pursuit of peace and justice.
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