RACHEL GOLDBERG-POLIN: Thank you, Margaret. I really appreciate your support and everyone else who is supporting us. And remember, there are people in far worse positions than we are, who are waiting every day for a sign that their loved ones are going to be returned. And I just hope that tomorrow we get some answers and we move a step closer to bringing these people home.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Thank you for joining us, Rachel Goldberg-Polin. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Interviewer: MARGARET BRENNAN
Interviewee: RACHEL GOLDBERG-POLIN
Transcript Date: April 7, 2024
In the interview, Rachel Goldberg-Polin, the mother of a 23-year-old hostage held by Hamas, expressed the pain and desperation she has experienced over the last six months. She discussed her efforts to advocate for the release of her son and the other hostages, including meeting with various world leaders and government officials. Despite the support she has received, Rachel emphasized the urgent need to bring all the hostages home and the failure of the governments and parties involved to do so within six months.
Rachel highlighted the diverse group of hostages being held by Hamas, including American citizens, Muslim Arabs, Thai Buddhists, black African Christians, and people from various countries around the world. She called for increased advocacy and awareness of the situation, urging people to speak to their local leaders, write to the White House, and press for action to secure the release of the hostages. Rachel emphasized the importance of recognizing the individual identities and backgrounds of the hostages, amidst the noise and anger surrounding the situation.
Margaret Brennan acknowledged Rachel’s advocacy and expressed support for her and her family, promising to continue asking questions about her son and the other hostages. Rachel expressed gratitude for the support and recognition of those in even more dire situations waiting for news of their loved ones. She hoped for answers and progress in the upcoming meetings with government officials in Washington, aiming to bring the hostages closer to being reunited with their families. Brennan concluded the interview by sending her thoughts and best wishes to Rachel and her family, acknowledging the difficult journey they have been on.
