The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have officially confirmed the deaths of four Israeli hostages who were held by Hamas in Gaza.
The victims, Chaim Peri, Yoram Metzger, Amiram Cooper, and Nadav Popplewell, were brutally abducted and their bodies are now being held by the terrorist organization.
An IDF spokesperson stated that the determination of their deaths was based on intelligence information and was approved by an expert committee comprising the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Religion, and the Chief Rabbi of Israel. The exact circumstances surrounding their deaths are still under investigation by professionals.
“The IDF and other security agencies continue to use a variety of methods to gather information about the remaining hostages in Gaza,” the spokesperson said. “We will persist in our efforts and continue to support the families of the abductees until all are returned home.”
In a statement, the headquarters of the families for the return of the abductees expressed profound sorrow upon receiving the news of the murders. “The painful news should shake every citizen in the State of Israel and compel every leader to engage in deep soul-searching,” the statement read. “Chaim, Yoram, Amiram, and Nadav were abducted alive and had to return alive to their country and their families.”
The families’ headquarters called for immediate government action, demanding that a negotiating delegation be sent to ensure the return of all 124 abductees, both living and deceased. “Their murder in captivity is a disgrace and reflects the cost of delaying previous deals. We demand the Israeli government approve the Netanyahu deal immediately.”
Remembering the Hostages:
Nadav Popplewell, 51: From Kibbutz Nirim, Nadav was a sensitive and quiet individual, a gifted computer expert, and a devoted family member. He was abducted alongside his mother Hana Perry, who was later released after 49 days in captivity. His older brother, Roy, was killed on October 7.
Amiram Cooper, 84: One of the founders of Kibbutz Nir Oz, Amiram was an economist, poet, and composer. He was kidnapped with his wife Nurit, who was released after 17 days. Amiram leaves behind a wife, three children, and nine grandchildren.
Yoram Metzger, 80: Also from Kibbutz Nir Oz, Yoram was kidnapped along with his wife Tamar, who was released after 53 days. Known for his storytelling and humor, Yoram helped establish the Nir Oz winery. He is survived by his wife, three children, and seven grandchildren.
Chaim Peri, 80: A man of peace, art, and cinema, Chaim was a teacher and founder of the Nir Oz art gallery and Garden of Levels. He was kidnapped from his home while protecting his wife’s bed. Chaim leaves behind a wife, five children, and thirteen grandchildren.