Israeli forces have recovered the bodies of two Israeli-American citizens, Judi Weinstein Haggai and Gadi Haggai, who were taken hostage during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on X that the remains of the couple were found in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, during an overnight operation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency.
“Together with all citizens of Israel, my wife and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the dear families. The heart grieves for the most terrible loss. May their memory be blessed,” Netanyahu said.
Judi, 70, and Gadi, 72, were walking near their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz when they were attacked. Judi managed to contact emergency services and her family to say they had both been shot, and Gadi was badly wounded. Contact with them ended shortly after.
In December 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz confirmed they had been killed and their bodies were in Gaza.
Judi was born in New York and also held Canadian citizenship. She taught English and meditation to children with trauma from rocket attacks. Gadi was a retired chef and jazz musician. The couple is survived by four children and seven grandchildren.
Their daughter, Iris Haggai Liniado, posted on social media after the recovery: “My beautiful parents have been freed. We have certainty.” She thanked the IDF, the FBI, and the governments of Israel and the United States and called for the release of all remaining hostages.
Israel says 56 hostages remain in Gaza, at least 20 of them believed to be alive. Most hostages have been released during two temporary ceasefires in late 2023 and early 2025.
Israel said it will continue operations until all hostages are returned. “We will not rest or be silent until we bring all our captives home,” Netanyahu said.
