In his first public statements since it was revealed that Israeli forces mistakenly killed three Israeli hostages on Friday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “Along with the entire people of Israel, I bow my head in deep sorrow and mourn the death of three of our dear sons who were taken hostage, including Yotam Chaim and Samar Talalka.”

Benjamin NetanyahuPhoto: Amir Cohen/UPI/Profimedia Images

According to the Times of Israel, the third hostage killed was later identified as Alon Lulu Shamriz.

“This is an unbearable tragedy. This night the whole state of Israel is in mourning. My heart goes out to the families at this difficult time. I strengthen our brave soldiers who carry out the sacred mission of returning our abductees, even at the cost of their own lives,” Netanyahu said.

“Even on this difficult evening, we will heal our wounds, learn the necessary lessons and continue to make every effort to bring home all our hostages safely,” Netanyahu said.

In his own statement after the incident, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said: “At this difficult time, my thoughts and hearts are with the families of the three hostages who were mistakenly killed by IDF fire in Gaza.”

“This is a painful incident for every Israeli. We must remain steadfast and continue to act – for the sake of the hostages, our citizens and our soldiers. I spoke with the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces this evening about the details of this tragic incident in order to learn the lessons immediately,” Gallant said.

Israeli troops mistakenly killed three hostages – Israeli military perceived them as a “threat”

Israeli forces mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat and opened fire, killing them, during fighting in the northern Gaza city of Shejaiya, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said late on Friday.

“This is a tragic incident, the IDF takes responsibility,” Hagari said.

“This is an area where soldiers have encountered many terrorists, including kamikaze bombers carrying bombs,” he added.

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