Israel confirms deaths of four more hostages held by Hamas
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Monday that they have confirmed the deaths of four more Israeli hostages held in captivity by Hamas. Photos of the victims were posted on social media.
According to the Times of Israel, the deceased hostages are 79-year-old Chaim Peri, 84-year-old Amiram Cooper, 80-year-old Joram Metzger, and 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell. The IDF did not provide details on the circumstances of their deaths, citing an ongoing investigation.
Peri, Cooper, and Metzger were abducted by Hamas from the Nir Oz kibbutz on 7 October last year during a Hamas attack, while Popplewell was taken hostage from the Nirim kibbutz.
Hamas still holding hostages
Times of Israel reports that in December last year, Hamas released a propaganda video featuring Peri, Cooper, and Metzger. In March, the Palestinian movement announced that all three had been killed due to Israeli attacks.
On the other hand, Popplewell could be seen in a separate propaganda film in May, likely after his death.
So far, the IDF has confirmed the deaths of 41 hostages out of 120 whom Hamas has not released. On 7 October, the Palestinian group abducted 251 people.
