In the wake of the recent attacks by Hamas militants on Israel, the State Department has confirmed the deaths of at least 22 US citizens. Additionally, an unknown number of Americans have been taken hostage by the terrorist group. The Biden administration has made it a top priority to locate and rescue these missing citizens.

Among the victims is Deborah Matias, a 50-year-old mother who sacrificed her life to save her son. During the attack, Deborah threw herself on top of her son, shielding him from gunfire. While she and her husband were tragically killed, their son survived. Deborah was described as a "child of light and life" who followed her passion for music.

Another victim, Dr. Hayim Katsman, was a graduate of the University of Washington who had a strong desire for peace in the Middle East. He was found dead in his apartment after Hamas militants entered his community. Hayim's friend, Avital Alajem, recounted their terrifying experience hiding from the attackers in a shelter's closet. While Avital survived, Hayim was shot and killed.

Hersh Golberg-Polin, a 23-year-old who was celebrating his birthday at a desert festival, is among those feared missing. Witnesses reported seeing him taking cover in a bomb shelter, but later he was seen walking out calmly with his arm reportedly blown off. It is believed that he was taken by Hamas militants and his cellphone signal was last detected at the Gaza border.

Adrienne Neta, a midwife originally from California, was last heard screaming on the phone to her adult children as the terrorists entered her home. Her son, Nahar Neta, tearfully expressed hope that she is being held hostage rather than being dead on the street. Adrienne was known for her dedication to helping people and bringing thousands of babies into the world.

Itay Chen, a New Yorker turned Israeli soldier, is also missing in action. Born and raised in New York, Itay joined the Israel Defense Forces and was stationed along the Gaza border. His father, Ruby Chen, last heard from him during the attack when Itay said they were under attack. Since then, there has been no contact, and he is feared to be among the hostages.

Sagui Dekle-Chen, a married father expecting his third child, was last seen in his Kibbutz near the Gaza border. His father, Jonathan Dekel-Chen, believes that Sagui has been taken to Gaza by Hamas militants and is being held hostage there. Jonathan described his son as an exceptional individual and expressed the devastating toll the attacks have taken on their community.

President Joe Biden has assured the families of the missing Americans that the US is working tirelessly to bring them home. However, officials have acknowledged the challenges of rescuing Americans from Gaza at this time. The Israeli military has reported that a total of 199 people are believed to be held in Gaza, a higher number than initially estimated. The situation remains fluid, and families are anxiously awaiting any update on their loved ones.