An Israeli wrestling star was reportedly killed by Hamas after the unprecedented attacks this weekend.
Palestinian militant group Hamas – which is designated as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the US, the EU and the UK – killed hundreds of Israelis as they stormed communities near the Gaza Strip on Saturday (October 7) and fired rockets over the border.
It is believed that Amit Magnezi, who made appearances for the Israeli Wrestling League and the Israeli Pro Wrestling Association, was among those who lost their lives following the surprise attack.
READ MORE: Over 10 Brits 'feared dead or missing' in Israel as 'heartbroken' families pay tribute
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Clothesline – a wrestling news channel based in Israel – wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "#ClotheslineIL and the entire wrestling community in #Israel send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Amit Magnezi who was murdered by terrorists this past Saturday. We are truly sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace."
The Israeli Wrestling League and the Israeli Pro Wrestling Association also appeared to confirm the news on Facebook. Yahav Yanco, who has ties to the Israeli Wrestling League according to his Facebook page, said: "I am writing this and my body is shaking. Amit Magenzi, a 22-year-old boy was murdered while all he wanted to do was spread some love and happiness in this twisted world.
"My little brother, there are not too many words now just throat choking tears. I'm so sorry this happened to you. My heart is burning and my brain is not comprehending. I will love you and remember you forever.
"With the perfect smile and a halo of light and love that surrounded you. Every place you went you wanted to do good. How much light and joy you brought us to training and performances. Our arena will never be the same arena again.
"Watch over us because we didn't make it. I will love you forever. I'm sorry my brother."
Wrestling fans also left messages of condolence. One wrote: "My heart is broken." Another said: "Unbelievable, just shocking."
Israel has now formally declared war on Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement today (Monday, October 9) "wide-scale strikes" are being conducted on several "strategic" centres in Gaza belonging to Hamas. Israeli forces fought to regain control of the communities around Gaza, and said there is now no fighting taking place inside Israel.
This morning officials said the Israeli death toll from Hamas' surprise attack stood at more than 700. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, Israel's airstrikes in response had killed more than 590 people as of this morning.
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