Iconic Israeli-American Family's Heartbreaking Farewell: A Call for Unity Amid Hostage Tragedy

The Goldberg-Polin family, emblematic in the global effort to free hostages from Hamas, recently laid their son to rest in Jerusalem. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, killed by militants, had become a symbol of the hostage crisis. His parents, who met with global leaders, hope his death spurs progress in cease-fire negotiations.

An Israeli-American family that has become a global symbol in the fight to free hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza laid their son to rest on Monday. Hersh Goldberg-Polin was reportedly killed by militants as soldiers approached his location.

Thousands gathered in a Jerusalem cemetery to pay their respects to the 23-year-old, whose image became synonymous with the hostage crisis. Mourners, including many waving Israeli flags, lined the streets as his family drove to the cemetery. Emotional scenes unfolded as his mother, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, bid farewell, saying, "Finally, finally, finally you are free!"

The Israeli military announced Sunday that Goldberg-Polin's body, along with those of five other hostages, had been found in a tunnel in southern Gaza. His parents, who had advocated worldwide for his release, hope his death will be a turning point in the ongoing cease-fire negotiations.

(With inputs from agencies.)