Israeli Forces Recover Hostage Youssef Ziyadne’s Body in Gaza, Raise Concerns for Missing Son
Youssef Ziyadne, Abducted on October 7, Killed in Captivity
Yesterday, the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) and ISA (Israel Security Agency) located and recovered the body of Youssef Ziyadne, a hostage who was taken on October 7th during the Hamas attacks. The recovery took place in an underground tunnel in Rafah, Gaza, and the body was returned to Israel. Ziyadne’s abduction was part of the broader wave of violence that shook Israel, and his death in captivity marks a devastating chapter for his family.
Search for Missing Son Raises Alarming Concerns
Along with the recovery of Youssef, additional findings related to his son, Hamza Ziyadne, were also discovered. Hamza, also taken by Hamas on October 7th, remains missing, and the recent findings have raised serious concerns about his fate. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain unclear, and the situation is dire.
IDF Provides Support to the Ziyadne Family
Following a detailed identification procedure conducted by the National Institute of Forensic Medicine and the Israel Police, the IDF Manpower Directorate’s Hostage team notified the Ziyadne family of their tragic loss. The IDF and ISA extended their heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Statement on the Tragic Loss
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep sorrow over the Ziyadne family’s tragic news. Speaking on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Netanyahu conveyed his condolences, stating, “We hoped and worked for the safe return of the four members of the family held hostage by Hamas. We returned the children Bilal and Aisha in November 2023 and wanted to bring back Youssef and Hamza as well. I send heartfelt condolences to the family.”
Netanyahu further praised the IDF and ISA for their unwavering efforts to bring the hostages home, reaffirming that the Israeli government will continue working tirelessly to bring all hostages—both living and deceased—back to their families.
Ongoing Efforts to Bring Hostages Home
The IDF and ISA continue their operations in the hopes of bringing home all hostages as soon as possible. The heartache of the Ziyadne family highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many families still waiting for their loved ones to return from Gaza.
