Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an American-Israeli citizen, sent his mother two final text messages from inside a bomb shelter on October 7, 2023, as Hamas terrorists launched a widespread attack on Israel. The 23-year-old was among hundreds of young people attending the Supernova desert rave near Re'im when the assault began, leading to his abduction and severe injury. "60 Minutes" highlighted his poignant communication, stating:
"Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s last texts to his mother were “I love you” and “I’m sorry.” He sent them from inside a bomb shelter on Oct. 7, 2023, as Hamas launched its terror attack." This desperate message underscores the terror and desperation experienced by victims during the initial hours of the attack, marking a harrowing moment before his capture.
Goldberg-Polin was last seen being forced onto a Hamas pickup truck, having sustained a severe arm injury for which he reportedly applied a tourniquet himself. He had sought refuge in a bomb shelter with others, attempting to escape the onslaught before ultimately being captured by the militants. His parents, Rachel Goldberg-Polin and Jon Polin, have since become prominent global advocates, tirelessly campaigning for the release of all hostages held in Gaza, with their son's plight at the forefront of their efforts.
In April 2024, Hamas released a video confirming that Goldberg-Polin was still alive and in captivity, showing him with a bandaged arm consistent with his reported injury. This video provided the first visual confirmation of his well-being since his abduction over six months prior, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the prolonged ordeal. His family believes he is being held in a tunnel network within Gaza, enduring prolonged detention under challenging conditions.
The ongoing captivity of Goldberg-Polin and the remaining hostages continues to be a central focus of international diplomatic efforts and humanitarian campaigns. His mother, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, has met with numerous world leaders and spoken at the United Nations, tirelessly campaigning for the safe return of her son and all those abducted. The "I love you" and "I'm sorry" texts serve as a powerful and enduring symbol of the human tragedy stemming from the October 7 attacks and the profound pain of families awaiting their loved ones' return, urging global action for their freedom.
