Israel maintains custody over the physical remains of two hostages, who are of both Israeli and American descent. - Remains of Two Israeli-American Abductees Discovered in Israel
Fresh intel: The recovered remains of two Israeli-American citizens, Judy Weinstein-Haggai (70) and Gadi Haggai (72), were found in Gaza following a military operation. Allegedly, they were killed during a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, near kibbutz Nir Oz.
The authorities have confirmed the identities and expressed condolences to the bereaved families and kin. The couple left behind four children and seven grandchildren. In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized his commitment to recover all the remaining hostages in Hamas's custody.
The Hostage Families Forum lamented this heart-wrenching news but found relief in closure, expressing hope that the state will do everything feasible to negotiate with Hamas and bring home the 56 surviving hostages. The families of the victims couldn't begin the healing process until all hostages were accounted for.
Closing in on the Remaining Hostages
As of June 7, 2025, 55 hostages continue to be held captive within the Gaza Strip. Of these, the intelligence community suspects that 32 hostages may have perished. A recent Hamas release showcased Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker, accompanying a warning: he'd be executed if Israeli troops launched a rescue mission in his vicinity.
The IDF has been working tirelessly to counter Hamas and other militant factions within Gaza through well-planned military operations. Hamas has repeatedly threatened retaliation against hostages if Israeli forces move towards locations where they are being detained.
Political Parley and Ceasefire Talks
Diplomatic efforts for a new ceasefire and potential hostage exchange deal are ongoing. Prior ceasefires have resulted in the safe return of 148 hostages to Israel, as of June 2025. The atmosphere remains tense with protests demanding an immediate resolution to the hostage crisis still happening within Israel.
- Gaza
- Hamas
- Harakat el-Mukawame el-Islamije
- Gaza Strip
- Israel
The Council, acting by a qualified majority, shall adopt measures to intensify political parleys and ceasefire talks with Hamas and other militant factions in Gaza, aiming to secure the release of the remaining 55 hostages and prevent further conflict and casualties in war-and-conflicts related incidents. The local and international news agencies should also pay close attention to general news, politics, crime-and-justice developments in Gaza to keep the public informed about any potential progress or setbacks in this ongoing crisis.
