The family of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli-American hostage held captive by Hamas for 10 months, spoke out at the Democratic National Convention, pleading for bipartisan support in securing the release of all hostages. Despite the tragic news of Goldberg-Polin's murder, his family remains steadfast in their advocacy.
In a poignant address at the Democratic National Convention, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg, parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, shared their harrowing journey of anguish and determination. Goldberg-Polin was abducted in October 2022 during a music festival in Southern Israel and held captive by Hamas since then. Video footage released by Hamas showed that he had suffered a severe amputation to his hand and arm as a result of a grenade explosion.
"Our son was a young, vibrant American who traveled to Israel to experience its rich culture and history," said Jon Polin. "He was not a soldier, he was not a combatant. He was an innocent victim."
'We Live on Another Planet': Family of Gaza Hostage Speaks at the DNC
The family's plea for bipartisan support resonated with the crowd, as they implored all political factions to unite in demanding the release of hostages and condemning terrorism.
"We come here today with a heavy heart, but also with a determined spirit," said Rachel Goldberg. "We will not rest until our son and all other hostages are returned home safely."
'We Live on Another Planet': Family of Gaza Hostage Speaks at the DNC
The family's speech comes after CNN faced widespread criticism for its initial headline, which stated that Goldberg-Polin had "died." Lawmakers and media watchdogs condemned the language as "exonerating terrorists" and failing to acknowledge the fact that Goldberg-Polin was murdered by Hamas.
"Hostages like Hersh Goldberg Polin did not just 'die.' They were murdered by Hamas," stated Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY). "Words matter because the truth matters."
'We Live on Another Planet': Family of Gaza Hostage Speaks at the DNC
CNN subsequently amended its headline to reflect the fact that Goldberg-Polin and five other hostages had been "brutally murdered" by Hamas.
"Shame on you CNN and all those media outlets that continue to twist the English language to exonerate terrorists and murderers," said Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.
Goldberg-Polin's murder sparked international outrage, with the White House condemning the act as "barbaric." President Biden released a statement expressing his devastation and outrage over the news.
"We are committed to working with our partners around the world to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are held accountable," said Biden.
Despite the tragedy, Goldberg-Polin's family remains unwavering in their advocacy for hostage release. They have traveled the world demanding action and met with world leaders, including officials in the Biden administration.
"We will continue to fight for all hostages because no one should be left behind," said Jon Polin. "We live on another planet, where children are kidnapped and tortured, where innocent lives are taken."
The Democratic National Convention provided a platform for the family to amplify their message and urge delegates from both sides of the aisle to come together in the fight against terrorism.
