Four hostages, identified as Haim Perry (80), Yoram Metzger (80), Amiram Cooper (84), and Nadav Popplewell (51), were confirmed dead by the Israeli military on June 3, 2024. The men were believed to have been killed 'several months ago' near Khan Younis in central Gaza while Israeli forces were operating in the area.
The families of the deceased hostages had previously received conflicting information regarding their loved ones' status. Nadav Popplewell's mother, Hannah Perry, was released from captivity on November 24, 2023; his brother Roee was murdered on October 7. Haim Perry and Yoram Metzger were both from Nir Oz and are survived by their respective families.
Amiram Cooper was also from Nir Oz and is survived by his wife Nurit, three children, and nine grandchildren. His wife was held captive in Gaza for 17 days before she was released on October 23.
The latest revelation comes as pressure mounts on the Israeli government to secure a ceasefire proposal outlined by US President Joe Biden last week. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel has demanded the immediate approval of Biden's ceasefire proposal and the return of all hostages, living and dead.
The deaths of these four hostages are a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. More than 120 people were taken hostage during Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, with over 40 believed to have been killed since then. The Israeli government has launched a military campaign in Gaza to destroy Hamas.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of these four hostages are still under investigation by the Israeli military.