President Herzog: The heart of a nation is shattered to pieces

President Isaac Herzog posted a statement on X today (Thursday) mourning the four slain hostages who have been returned to Israel, saying that the heart of the nation has been shattered into pieces.

In his statement, Herzog said that "this is a moment of agony and pain. The heart of an entire nation is shattered to pieces. In the name of the State of Israel, I bow my head and ask for forgiveness. Forgiveness that we did not fulfill our duty. Forgiveness that we did not protect you on that cursed day. Forgiveness that we did not bring you home safely. May their memory be blessed."

Members of both the opposition and coalition responded with mournful messages following the news that the Bibas family was not alive, according to the claims of the terrorists who kidnapped them.

MK Simcha Rothman, Chairman of the Knesset Constitution Committee, posted this on his X account:

"The first Ram wept bitterly, for his sheep were led to slaughter.

The Bull cried out in the heights, for we were all pursued at our necks.

The Twins star appeared divided, for brothers' blood was spilled like water.

The Crab wished to fall to the earth, for we fainted from thirst.

The heights trembled before the Lion, for our roar did not reach the heavens.

Virgins and young men were killed, therefore the Virgin darkened her face.

How long will there be weeping in Zion and mourning in Jerusalem? May You have mercy on Zion and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem."

(From the lamentations for the Ninth of Av/Tisha B'Av)

Meanwhile, Yesh Atid MK Shelly Tal-Meron posted this on her Instagram page, together with a picture of a broken heart:

"My heart is shattered to pieces.

I'm sorry Shiri

I'm sorry Kfir I'm sorry Ariel

I'm sorry Oded

Yarden and Yocheved, you have returned from hell, I'm sorry we couldn't save your loved ones.

I'm sorry to all of your family members This could and should have ended differently.

The entire people of Israel are with you in these inconceivable moments.

May their souls be bound in the bond of life."

State Camp party leader MK Benny Gantz had this to say:

"Tomorrow we will all hold our breath – together. We will mourn – together. We will stop the arguments – nothing will happen, they can wait. And we will embrace the dear families as a strong and united nation. They deserve it, we deserve it."