CHICAGO (WLS) — There’s immense happiness surrounding the news of the final hostages being freed by Hamas. However, it’s a complicated time for those with family members who haven’t returned.
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was originally from the Chicago area, was one of the hostages who did not survive.
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A 23-year-old from Chicago’s northern suburbs was among numerous individuals taken by militants at a music festival in southern Israel two years ago, on October 7, 2023.
Israeli officials say he was one of six hostages murdered by Hamas, shot in the head at close range.
Goldberg-Polin’s grandmother, Leah Polin, says family calls them the beautiful six.
“You see the outline of his body, and his arms were like yardsticks. They were so thin,” Polin said. “Certain aspects, as I’ve mentioned, make the Bible suddenly clear to me. I’m torn. It’s heartbreaking that Hersh isn’t here, yet I’m grateful for the families who can once again embrace their loved ones.”
With all 20 remaining hostages held by Hamas now freed, Polin reflects on the last memory of Hersh at his funeral while seeking ways to move forward.
“There’s no magic solution. Everyone is different. Everyone is unique. I can see that in my children, bless them. They have traveled across the globe. I believe they are a source of comfort to others,” Polin expressed.
Among the hostages still in recovery are Judith and Natalie Raanan, a mother and daughter duo from Evanston, who were captured and later released by Hamas weeks after the attack.
In addition to the Hamas hostages being released, Palestinian prisoners are currently en route to Gaza.
