The Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C., marked the second yahrzeit, or anniversary of death, for six hostages who were murdered by Hamas terrorists in a tunnel in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip. The commemoration took place on Saturday, corresponding to the Hebrew calendar date of the 25th of Av.
The six individuals honored were Master Sgt. Ori Danino, Carmel Gat, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi, and Eden Yerushalmi. All were kidnapped alive during the Hamas-led assault on the northwestern Negev on Oct. 7, 2023.
According to reports, the hostages were discovered in a 65-foot-deep tunnel. They sustained gunshot wounds to the head and other parts of their bodies. Evidence at the scene also indicated that they had been tied up and showed signs of prolonged neglect, including not having bathed for an extended period. Some hostages had injuries that appeared to have been treated over time.
It is believed that the hostages were transported from the northern Gaza Strip to the south before they were killed. Their bodies were recovered by the Israel Defense Forces on Sept. 1, 2024.
The embassy shared a message on social media, stating, “Alongside our Shabbat candles, we light candles in their memory and carry their light forward. May their memories forever be a blessing, and may their light continue to shine.”