In a heartbreaking development, the Israeli kibbutz of Nir Oz announced the death of 70-year-old Judih Weinstein on Thursday. She was initially believed to be held hostage in Gaza, along with her husband Gad Haggai, who was declared dead six days prior.
The couple was attacked by Hamas militants on the morning of October 7 while taking a walk near their home. The incursion resulted in the death of about 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 240, including Weinstein and Haggai.
Weinstein managed to call emergency services, informing them of the shooting and sending a message to her family. The kibbutz had earlier confirmed Haggai’s death, with his body taken to Gaza. Now, they revealed that Weinstein was also killed on the same day, and her body is being held in Gaza.
The circumstances surrounding how Israeli authorities determined their deaths remain unclear. The couple leaves behind two sons, two daughters, and seven grandchildren.
International Reaction and Personal Details
President Joe Biden expressed devastation upon learning of Weinstein’s death, especially after meeting with the couple’s daughter. He emphasized the unimaginable ordeal the families endured and stated that no family should go through such suffering.
Judih Weinstein, born in New York, was an active member of Kibbutz Nir Oz, teaching English to children with special needs. She dedicated her life to serving others, using her passions for poetry, puppeteering, and mindfulness to empower children. Haggai, her husband, was a retired chef and jazz musician.
In a YouTube video from a previous conflict in May, Weinstein expressed hope for better days ahead, reading poems and advocating for basic rights amid rocket fire.
Family’s Struggle and Government Response
Al Haggai, one of the couple’s sons, revealed the family’s hope that Weinstein’s multiple citizenships would facilitate her release during a ceasefire in late November. However, as her name was absent from daily release lists, concerns grew.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that at least 23 of the approximately 129 hostages believed to be held in Gaza have died or been killed in captivity. Netanyahu assured families of ongoing efforts to bring the hostages home, meeting with them in Tel Aviv.
Nir Oz, one of the hardest-hit Israeli communities on October 7, continues to grapple with the aftermath, with widespread support and sympathy across Israel for the families of missing hostages. The government is engaged in behind-the-scenes efforts to secure their return, though details remain undisclosed.
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