In a statement released on Friday, the IDF explained that the bodies underwent forensic examination by the National Institute of Forensic Medicine and the Israel Police. Following the conclusion of the identification process, IDF representatives informed the Ziyadne family that Hamza had been killed while in Hamas captivity.
During recent operations, IDF and ISA forces located and recovered the bodies of both Youssef and Hamza, returning them to Israel.
The Hostages Families Forum shared their sorrow, remembering Hamza as a nature lover with a deep affection for animals, and described him as beloved by his friends. He is survived by his wife and two children.
"We are heartbroken once again upon receiving the news of Hamza al-Ziyadne’s murder in Hamas captivity," the forum stated. "The prolonged identification process is a painful reminder of the urgency to bring the deceased home for burial."
The forum further emphasized the tragic nature of the abduction, with four family members taken hostage, only two of whom returned alive. They argued that Hamza and Youssef could have been saved earlier through a different agreement.
“The time and conditions are ripe for all hostages to return – bringing the living home for rehabilitation and the deceased for proper burial,” the forum urged. “Negotiations must be expedited to secure an immediate deal for their return. This historic opportunity should not be missed.”
Hamza and Youssef were both taken hostage alive from Kibbutz Holit on October 7, 2023, alongside Youssef’s young children, Aisha and Bilal. The children were released in a November 2023 hostage deal, 55 days after their abduction.
The IDF and ISA extended their heartfelt condolences to the Ziyadne family and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing efforts to bring all hostages home.
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