After 241 days: Haim Peri, Yoram Metzger Amiram Koper and Nadav Pophavewell have been murderded

The families of Haim Peri, Yoram Metzger, Amiram Koper, and Nadav Popelwell received devastating news today, 241 days after their abduction. Israeli authorities informed them that the four had died while in Hamas captivity. The determination of their deaths was made based on verified intelligence information, approved by an expert committee of the Ministry of Health and the Rabbinate.

According to IDF spokesman Brigadier General Daniel Hagari, it is believed that the four were held together by Hamas terrorists and killed several months ago in the Khan Yunis area, possibly during IDF operations in the region. Hagari acknowledged the difficult questions surrounding the circumstances of their deaths and assured that investigations are ongoing.

In response to the tragic news, the families' headquarters demanded immediate action from the Israeli government to secure the return of all abducted individuals, emphasizing the need to learn from past delays in negotiations.

Among the victims was Nadav Popelwell, 51, described as a beloved family man and computer expert. His abduction was part of a massacre on October 7, during which his brother was also killed.

Haim Peri, 80, was remembered as a sculptor, curator, and advocate for peace. He was abducted from his home in Nir Oz while protecting his family from terrorists.

Yoram Metzger, 80, and his wife Tamar were both abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz. Tamar was released in a previous hostage deal, leaving Yoram behind.

Amiram Koper, 84, a poet and composer, was kidnapped with his wife, who was later released for humanitarian reasons.

In a separate development, the IDF announced the discovery of the body of Dolev Yehud, 35, who had been reported as kidnapped in Gaza. Yehud leaves behind a wife and four children, including a newborn who will never know their father.