The family of Youssef and Hamza Ziyadne, a father and son abducted to Gaza, confirmed on Wednesday their deaths after being informed that their bodies were found in the enclave.
“Our hearts are broken,” said Ali Ziyadne, Youssef’s brother and Hamza’s uncle. “We wanted them to return to the family alive, but sadly, they have come back deceased."
Youssef and Hamza, residents of Rahat, were abducted on October 7 from Kibbutz Holit, where they were working. Hamza’s younger siblings, Bilal and Aisha, were also taken but later released in a hostage exchange deal.
"Aisha and her brother Bilal were waiting to embrace them. This is a horrific and shocking tragedy,” Ali said.
The circumstances of Youssef and Hamza’s deaths remain unclear, and authorities have not provided further details. The family described the loss as immeasurable.