In a heart-wrenching confirmation, Israeli authorities have announced the identification of the remains of four hostages recently returned from Gaza. The victims—Itzik Elgarat, Ohad Yahalomi, Shlomo Mantzur, and Tsahi Idan—were among those kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. Their bodies were handed over by Hamas, completing the identification process conducted by the Health Ministry’s National Forensic Medicine Center.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the families of the four hostages were informed of their tragic deaths. Yahalomi, Idan, and Elgarat were confirmed to have been killed during their captivity, while Mantzur was murdered on the day of his abduction.
The bodies’ arrival in Israel was met with solemn respect, as citizens lined the streets to honour the lives lost, continuing a nationwide tradition of paying tribute to the deceased hostages. This marks the conclusion of the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which saw 33 hostages returned, 25 of them alive and 8 deceased.
A Nation in Mourning
President Isaac Herzog expressed his deep sorrow, stating that the hearts of Israelis are heavy with grief. He took some comfort in the fact that the victims would be buried with dignity in Israel, but he reaffirmed Israel’s unwavering commitment to securing the release of all hostages, viewing them as humanitarian cases that must be addressed.
Tributes to the Fallen
Each of the four hostages left behind profound legacies of love, service, and community.
From left to right Itzik Elgarat, Tsahi Idan, Shlomo Mantzur, Ohad Yahalomi
- Ohad Yahalomi, 50, was a devoted family man and a passionate environmentalist. A lifelong lover of the desert, Yahalomi worked for the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and contributed to educational projects, including a scorpion field guide. His family and Kibbutz Nir Oz described him as a man of deep compassion, deeply devoted to both his loved ones and the land.
- Itzik Elgarat, 68, was a beloved member of Kibbutz Nir Oz, known for his warm heart, infectious laughter, and dedication to his community. He was taken from his home and shot during the attack, later reported to be alive and injured before his tragic death. He was remembered fondly for his love of football, backgammon, and his unwavering support for those around him.
- Tsahi Idan, 49, was abducted with his wife and children from Kibbutz Nahal Oz. His daughter, Maayan, was tragically killed during the attack. Despite the uncertainty over his fate, the family had hoped for his return. Tsahi’s family was devastated to learn of his death. He will now be laid to rest next to his daughter, Maayan.
- Shlomo Mantzur, 85, a founding member of Kibbutz Kissufim, was a hardworking and cheerful man known for his generosity. He was taken by terrorists from his home during the attack. His wife, Mazal, vividly remembers seeing him handcuffed by the kidnappers before he was driven away in his own car.
How can we pray?
Comfort for the Families: Pray for God’s peace to surround the families of Ohad, Itzik, Tsahi, and Shlomo as they mourn their loved ones. Ask for His comforting presence to heal their broken hearts and provide strength as they navigate their grief.
Strength for the Hostages’ Families: Many hostages remain captive. Pray for strength, endurance, and courage for the families still waiting for the safe return of their loved ones. May they experience God’s sustaining grace in this uncertain time.
Healing for the Nation: Pray for peace in Israel and for healing for the entire nation as it grapples with the continued devastation of this war. May this be an opportunity that in their despair, they may cry out to God!
