Hoyer Statement on the Murder of Israeli Hostages

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) issued the following statement today on the murder of American Hersh Goldberg-Polin and five other Israeli hostages:

"I am devastated and outraged by the news that an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, and five other Israeli hostages - Ori Danino, Carmel Gat, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Eden Yerushalmi - were murdered by Hamas, a brutal terrorist organization with an explicit mission to kill Jews and destroy the State of Israel. Their remains were recently recovered from the tunnels beneath Rafah. Hersh was just twenty-three when he was abducted after having his arm blown off while trying to save others from Hamas' attack on the Nova Music Festival in Southern Israel. May their memory be a blessing.

"I have been so fortunate to speak with and get to know the Goldberg-Polin family, who, along with the families of these other hostages, have endured the unthinkable for nearly a year. I am one of countless people across America and around the world who have been in awe of how the Goldberg-Polins have met this devastating moment with incredible courage and fortitude. Even in the face of this trauma, they have been powerful advocates for their son and all the other hostages. My prayers are with Hersh's parents and loved ones, as well as all the families who received this unthinkable news. The Jewish world and all those who value basic human rights mourn with them.

"We will not yield until we see Hamas destroyed, its oppressive rule over Gaza ended, and its ability to carry out these inhumane attacks eliminated. We cannot and will not stop working to ensure every single hostage is returned to their loved ones. We must bring them home NOW."