Plea for Hostage Release: Heartfelt Appeal at Democratic National Convention

The parents of a 23-year-old American taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 attack on Israel gave a moving speech at the Democratic National Convention. They emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the issue and appealed for bipartisan support to secure the release of the hostages still held in Gaza.

The parents of a 23-year-old American captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack on Israel made an emotional plea at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday, urging for the release of hostages still held in Gaza.

'This is a political convention. But needing our only son — and all of the cherished hostages — home is not a political issue. It is a humanitarian issue,' said Jon Polin, whose son Hersh Goldberg-Polin was kidnapped from a music festival in Israel.

Polin and his wife, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, received an extended ovation from Democratic delegates in Chicago. Steering clear of politics, Jon Polin noted the bipartisan support in Washington for securing the hostages' release. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are 'both working tirelessly' for a deal between Israel and Hamas, he added.

More than 100 hostages remain in Gaza; some may have died. Family members of six of the eight American hostages still held by Hamas were present at the convention to raise awareness. Ronen and Orna Neutra, the parents of hostage Omer Neutra, also called for bipartisan action to reach an overdue deal.

On Tuesday, pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed with police during a protest outside the Israeli consulate. Biden had talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the U.S. pushes for a 'bridging proposal' for a Gaza cease-fire.

(With inputs from agencies.)