Hamas Militants Execute Israeli Hostage Hanan Yablonka in Gaza Hospital, Hide Body in Tunnel Wall

Avivit Yablonka, sister of Hanan Yablonka who was murdered while held captive by Hamas, revealed to the Daily Mail the brutal circumstances of her brother's death. On October 7, 2023, Hanan was shot in the chest by Hamas militants after spontaneously deciding to attend the Nova festival in Gaza without informing his family. After being critically wounded, militants dragged him into a Gaza hospital where they executed him by shooting him three times in the head. His body was then concealed inside a bag and hidden within the walls of a Hamas tunnel in northern Gaza alongside other hostages' remains.

Hanan's fate remained unknown to his family for nearly eight months until the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) located his body during a special operation in May 2024. His remains were recovered alongside those of Orion Hernandez and Michel Nissenbaum. Avivit described the harrowing months of uncertainty after Hanan was declared missing and the devastating confirmation of his death. She recounted how Hanan, along with friends including the late footballer Lior Asulin, fled the festival after a car accident but was shot by militants while checking on the other vehicle.

The family only learned of Hanan’s presence at the festival after days of searching and messaging. His bullet-riddled car was found near the site, but he was missing. Months of investigation, witness testimonies, and video analysis eventually revealed the tragic sequence of events. Avivit expressed deep sorrow over never having the chance to say goodbye to her brother and highlighted the emotional toll on their family.

Despite her grief, Avivit finds solace in the presence of other former hostages and survivors, drawing strength from their resilience. She emphasized the importance of their return and the hope it brings to families like hers. The recovery of Hanan’s body, identified through dental records, brought some closure to the family, who continue to mourn his loss but cherish his memory.