The Israeli military said it has recovered the bodies of six hostages in an underground tunnel in Gaza, including an Israeli-American, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

They were among more than 200 people abducted by Hamas during the October 7 attacks last year.

More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel launched war on Gaza, following the attack led by Hamas.

103 hostages remain unaccounted for, with Israel confirming that some hostages have died either during the initial attacks or in captivating.

Efforts to negotiate their release have been ongoing, with international figures, including U.S. President Joe Biden, expressing outrage and calling for action.

The families of the hostages have been vocal, urging for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Protests have been organised, and there is mounting pressure on Israeli leadership to secure the hostages’ release.

In a statement US President Joe Biden said “Earlier today, in a tunnel under the city of Rafah, Israeli forces recovered six bodies of hostages held by Hamas.

“We have now confirmed that one of the hostages killed by these vicious Hamas terrorists was an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.

“I am devastated and outraged. Hersh was among the innocents brutally attacked while attending a music festival for peace in Israel on October 7. He lost his arm helping friends and strangers during Hamas’ savage massacre.

“He had just turned 23. He planned to travel the world. I have gotten to know his parents, Jon and Rachel. They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable. They have been relentless and irrepressible champions of their son and of all the hostages held in unconscionable conditions. I admire them and grieve with them more deeply than words can express.

“I know all Americans tonight will have them in their prayers, just as Jill and I will.  I have worked tirelessly to bring their beloved Hersh safely to them and am heartbroken by the news of his death. It is as tragic as it is reprehensible. Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will keep working around the clock for a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages.”