Cyprus Times

Israel Recovers Body of Last Hostage from Gaza, Declares Him a Hero

Published January 26, 2026, 16:05
Israel Recovers Body of Last Hostage from Gaza, Declares Him a Hero

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the recovery of the body of 24-year-old Ran Gvili, a police officer who was killed during the Hamas attack on the Alumim kibbutz on October 7, 2023. The body was found in a cemetery in eastern Gaza and has been returned to Israel for burial. Gvili was the last hostage remaining unaccounted for since the attack, during which hundreds were killed and 251 were abducted. Prime Minister Netanyahu described the recovery of the body as a significant achievement and hailed him as a hero of Israel. Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed his sorrow and emphasized Israel's commitment to bringing all soldiers and citizens home.