Israeli Families Mourn Hostages Recovered from Gaza: “We Paid the Worst Price”
On Sunday, Israel was gripped by grief and anger as families laid to rest loved ones whose bodies were recovered from Gaza. Israeli authorities confirmed the identities of the hostages, who were tragically shot at close range just before being found by soldiers. The pain of their loss was palpable as families and communities gathered to say their final goodbyes.
In the central city of Raanana, Nira Sarusi stood before mourners at her son Almog Sarusi’s funeral, struggling to hold back tears. “Almog, my dear son, how much hope we had, how much we prayed that we would get the chance to see you again,” she lamented. Almog was one of the 250 hostages taken during the horrific Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which claimed the lives of 1,205 people, mostly civilians.
As Nira spoke, her grief was laced with frustration. “But on October 7 you were neglected… You were sacrificed to ‘destroy Hamas’,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many who feel that the government has failed to protect its citizens. Her words reflected the deep sorrow and anger shared by countless Israelis who continue to grapple with the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict.
The funerals and memorial services held across Israel on Sunday were somber, with families mourning not only the loss of their loved ones but also the broader tragedy unfolding in the region. In Petah Tikva, the family of Eden Yerushalmi, another hostage whose death was confirmed, wept as they caressed her body, draped in the Israeli flag.
In Jerusalem, hundreds gathered at a community center to honor Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whose death was also announced on Sunday. Candles flickered in front of signs that read “Bring Hersh Home,” and many wept openly as the names of other hostages were read aloud. Hersh’s funeral is scheduled for Monday, a final farewell that will likely draw even more mourners.
The Israeli public’s frustration was evident as tens of thousands took to the streets on Sunday, demanding that the government do more to secure a ceasefire and negotiate the release of those still held captive. In Jerusalem, protesters gathered outside a government office, their voices echoing through the streets as they called on leaders to take decisive action.
“We don’t know who will be the next family to get the terrible call,” said Eyal Kalderon, whose cousin remains a hostage. “It was six young and beautiful people today, and it could be any of the others in the future.”
Back in Raanana, Nira Sarusi’s message was clear: “Enough, no more. We paid the worst price. I hope that we will be the last ones. From now on, only a deal to bring all the hostages back.” Her plea resonates with a nation desperate for peace and the safe return of its citizens.