Body of Canadian Murdered By Hamas Recovered in Gaza

Toronto, ON – June 5, 2025 – Upon learning that the body of Canadian Judih Weinstein Haggai and her husband Gadi have been recovered from Gaza, Noah Shack, Interim President, Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, released the following statement:

“For 608 days, Canada’s Jewish community – and our allies – have woken each morning hoping today would be the day our hostages come home.

“Today, we learned that the body of Judih Weinstein Haggai, a fellow Canadian, and her husband Gadi have been recovered from Gaza.

“Judih embodied the very best of Canada and Israel. An educator for children with special needs and a passionate peacebuilder, she dedicated her life to coexistence – teaching meditation to both Palestinian and Israeli children. She didn’t just believe in peace; she lived it.

“Yet on October 7, while on their morning walk in Kibbutz Nir Oz, Judih and Gadi were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists. Their bodies then taken to Gaza.

“Our hearts are with their children, grandchildren, and loved ones – who fought tirelessly for their return, from Parliament Hill to the public square.

“But our hearts won’t be whole until all 56 hostages still held in Gaza are brought home.

“Hamas' atrocities are among the worst crimes against humanity the world has ever seen. It is essential that the Government of Canada upholds its commitment: the Israeli hostages must be immediately returned and there can be no future for Hamas in Gaza.”

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