Jon Polin, left, and Rachel Goldberg, parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, speak on stage during the Democratic National Convention last month in Chicago.
AP
The family of Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin says he has been killed in the Gaza Strip.
The family issued a statement early Sunday, hours after the Israeli army said it had located bodies in Gaza.
“With broken hearts, the Goldberg-Polin family is devastated to announce the death of their beloved son and brother, Hersh,” it said. “The family thanks you all for your love and support and asks for privacy at this time.”
Goldberg-Polin was one of the best-known hostages as his parents, Chicago natives, had met with world leaders and pressed relentlessly for their help.
On Aug. 21, Chicago natives Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg were greeted at the Democratic National Convention in the United Center by a minute-long standing ovation and chants of “bring them home.”
Goldberg, her son and her husband are dual American-Israeli citizens. Polin grew up in West Rogers Park and Skokie, while Goldberg grew up in Streeterville. The family moved to Jerusalem in 2008 and still have family in Chicago.
For the full report, visit chicago.suntimes.com.
This undated photo shows Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
AP
Goldberg, her son and her husband are dual American-Israeli citizens. Polin grew up in West Rogers Park and Skokie, while Goldberg grew up in Streeterville. The family moved to Jerusalem in 2008 and still have family in Chicago.
A Hamas-issued video in April showing Goldberg-Polin clearly speaking under duress sparked new protests in Israel urging the government to do more to secure his and others’ freedom.
The announcement is certain to put pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a deal to bring home remaining hostages. The Israeli leader has said military pressure is needed to win their release as cease-fire efforts falter.
Before Israel’s announcement, Israel said it believed 108 hostages were still held in Gaza and about one-third of them were dead.