The United States has confirmed the tragic loss of nine of its citizens in the latest assault by Hamas on Israel. A representative of the U.S. National Security Council conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, while assuring them of their unswerving commitment to closely monitor the situation. The council is collaborating with local Israeli authorities in order to aid in the crisis.
Tragically, several of the victims’ identities remain unknown and others are reported missing. Among the missing is Hersh Golberg-Polin, an American-Israeli citizen who has not contacted his loved ones since the past Saturday. Golberg-Polin, a native Californian, moved to Israel in his childhood and had completed his army service earlier this year.
Further afield in Canada, the Canadian government agency, Global Affairs Canada, has clarified that one Canadian national was among the deceased, with two more currently unaccounted for. The agency has encouraged all Canadian citizens in Israel and Palestine to register for their services.
In the United Kingdom, fears are escalating, as it is suspected that more than ten British nationals could be victims of the attack. Among the confirmed casualties are Nathanel Young, a British-born Israeli soldier, and Bernard Cowan, a Glasgow native living in Israel. Two other British citizens are confirmed missing.
The French foreign ministry has reported the deaths of two French nationals in the attacks, with an additional fourteen reported missing. From Asian countries like Thailand, Nepal, and China, a significant number of citizens have been reported as casualties and hostages.
European countries, such as Germany, Austria, and Italy, also reported missing citizens and hostages. An Italian couple residing in Kibbutz Be’eri appeared among the missing. Latin American countries, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Mexico, are also affected, reporting missing citizens or casualties.
From Africa, the Tanzanian embassy in Israel is striving to locate two Tanzanian students on a business studies internship. Similarly, Ireland’s Kim Danti, a 22-year-old Irish-Israeli woman, is unaccounted for.
This international tragedy serves as a harsh reminder of how volatile geopolitical environments can have far-reaching consequences, affecting global citizens – and nations – indiscriminately. As these nations mourn for their citizens and await further updates, the international community stands alongside them, echoing their grief and their call for peace.
