Parents of Hersh championed his fight for survival.
In the wee hours, Israeli military personnel chanced upon the remains of six hostages hidden within a subterranean passage beneath Rafah, a city situated in the Gaza Strip. As per military reports, these individuals were reportedly slain by Hamas militants just moments prior to their discovery. One of the deceased was identified as Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a dual US-Israeli citizen who had gained prominence amidst the over 100 hostages. His parents, Rachel and Jon Polin, had relentlessly crusaded for Hersh's liberation at rallies, before the United Nations in Geneva, and even at the Democrats' party convention in Chicago.
"Among the captives, there are eight American citizens, and one of them is our only son," Rachel Goldberg began her emotional address. "Hersh, if you are listening to us, know that we love you, stay strong, just keep surviving." A youthfull individual with a witty sense of humor, Hersh had a penchant for football, music, and music festivals, along with an avid interest in geography. In a recent plea for ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and acknowledging the deplorable state of Gaza, Jon Polin uttered, "In the competition of suffering, there are no winners."
"Hersh, Hersh, it's Mom"
On a Thursday, the Goldbergs joined other family members of the captives at the Gaza Strip border. The assembly tried to reach the hostages through prolonged announcements via megaphones. "Hersh, Hersh, it's Mom," Rachel called out to her son. "I pray to God that He brings you back right now. I love you, stay strong." She added, "We never stop working, day and night."
Born in California, Hersh Goldberg-Polin moved to Israel with his parents at the tender age of seven, as part of an initiative. He immersed himself in a project that brought Israeli and Palestinian children together through football. On October 7, 2023, Hersh was abducted by Hamas during a massacre at the Nova music festival. During the tragedy, he was reportedly instrumental in saving several lives.
When a grenade hurled into the bunker where Goldberg-Polin was taking shelter with other visitors exploded, the 23-year-old allegedly hurled the explosive back, enduring severe damage to his left forearm. Subsequent footage revealed Hersh with his left arm amputated, in a Hamas propaganda video, in which he urged his loved ones to remain strong.
Also Werder Bremen mourns
Following the heartbreaking revelation, the Goldbergs addressed the public with a statement. "With a broken heart, we are compelled to announce the demise of our cherished son and brother Hersh," read the message. They thanked everyone for their support and asked for privacy.
Even Bundesliga club Werder Bremen expressed their condolences. "Our thoughts and heartbreaking sympathies go out to the Goldberg-Polin family, their relatives, and Hersh's friends in these challenging times. We had all hoped for Hersh's release until the end. His flag flutters in front of the Weser Stadium," announced the club in their statement of mourning.
Hersh Goldberg-Polin was a passionate fan of Bremen, having attended a game in early 2023, according to club records. Baltic Sea supporters had repeatedly remembered Hersh and the other abducted hostages in the recent past. During their Bundesliga home game against Borussia Dortmund (0-0) on Saturday, a banner reading "Stay strong - Survive" was once again displayed in the supporter's section.
"Despite the tragic circumstances, Rachel and Jon Polin continued their advocacy for peace and understanding, highlighting Hersh's passion for football and love for life and health."
"To honor Hersh's memory, Werder Bremen paid tribute to him during their matches, with fans displaying banners promoting resilience and hope for a better future, reflecting Hersh's spirit and his love for life and health."
