By Abigael Gioche
After 608 days of captivity, the bodies of Judi Weinstein, 70, and Gad Haggai, 72, were recovered in a joint overnight operation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet in southern Gaza.
The couple, who were dual citizens of Israel and the United States, were kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, during the deadly attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered condolences to the families and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment: “We will not rest until every hostage is returned.”
Weinstein and Haggai were on their morning walk when they were ambushed by militants. Judi, though injured, managed to send a voice message before being taken.
Gad was declared dead weeks later, with both confirmed deceased in December 2023. Until this week, their bodies remained in Gaza.
The complex recovery operation took place under conditions of strict intelligence coordination, though specific tactical details remain classified.
Israeli officials hailed the mission as part of the country’s broader effort to bring every hostage living or deceased home.
The recovery underscores the human cost of the ongoing conflict and the trauma carried by Israeli families since the October 7 attack by Hamas.
Judi and Gad’s return, though marked by sorrow, represents a form of closure for their loved ones and a reminder of Israel’s unyielding pursuit of justice and dignity for its citizens.
According to official sources, 58 hostages are still held in Gaza, with 33 believed to be dead.