Official announcements from the Israeli government or credible news sources

Bodies of Youssef and Hamza al-Ziyadnah Found in Gaza, 98 Hostages Remain with 36 Confirmed Dead

Jan 8, 2025, 03:44 PM

The bodies of Youssef al-Ziyadnah, 53, and his son Hamza al-Ziyadnah, 22, members of Israel's Bedouin community from Rahat, were discovered in the Gaza Strip, ending the hope of their family for their safe return. The father and son were kidnapped on October 7 while working at Kibbutz Holit. Their bodies were retrieved from an underground space in southern Gaza by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet. The family was informed of their deaths, and the bodies have been returned to Israel for burial. Youssef's other children, Bilal and Aisha, were previously released in a hostage deal in November 2023. The discovery of Youssef and Hamza's bodies leaves 98 hostages still held, with 36 confirmed dead. Israel's Defense Minister expressed deep condolences to the al-Ziyadnah family, acknowledging the bravery of the IDF soldiers involved in the operation.