Israeli forces returned the remains of Ran Gvili on Monday, marking the conclusion of a tragic chapter for families and society in Israel following Hamas’s brutal attack on October 7, 2023. Gvili was the last of 251 hostages taken during that assault, an event that triggered a prolonged conflict characterized by intense military operations and negotiations for hostage releases.
The recent transfer of Gvili’s remains was a key aspect of a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States, which came into effect on October 10. This cessation of hostilities aimed to stabilize a region devastated by more than two years of violence. The return of Gvili paves the way for a limited reopening of the Rafah crossing, a crucial route for humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the pedestrian crossings would resume, subject to inspections, once every hostage had been accounted for.
Gvili’s coffin, draped in an Israeli flag, was escorted by a convoy with sirens blaring, as civilians lined the route with Israeli flags in hand. A ceremony at a military base near Gaza saw Gvili’s father, Ytzik, pay tribute, expressing tremendous pride and the honor bestowed upon his son. “You should see the honors we’re giving you here,” he remarked emotionally.
Netanyahu celebrated Gvili as a “hero of Israel,” while Hamas acknowledged its role in providing information regarding the location of his body, claiming that this action demonstrated their adherence to the ceasefire agreement.
Gvili’s family had awaited this moment with anticipation, having opposed any further negotiations until his remains were returned. His mother, Talik, expressed relief and disbelief at their son’s return, highlighting that his body was found intact and in uniform. Military footage illustrated the somber reverence afforded Gvili as soldiers sang the national anthem.
The recovery of Gvili marks a significant moment in Israeli history, as President Isaac Herzog remarked that, for the first time since 2014, no Israeli citizens were held hostage in Gaza. His return follows the longstanding captivity of two civilian hostages and the bodies of soldiers from earlier conflicts.
Public figures, including U.S. President Donald Trump, praised the successful resolution of Gvili’s case, noting its complexity and difficulties. Netanyahu signaled that Israel is moving toward the next phase of the ceasefire plan, which includes disarming Hamas in Gaza — a demand that the group has yet to accept.
The anguish experienced by families of hostages has been palpable throughout the crisis, with support groups rallying to keep their plight visible. One such group, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, described Gvili as “a true friend” and organized public gatherings to advocate for the hostages.
As Gvili’s remains were returned, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in central Gaza reported receiving nine living Palestinian detainees released by Israel as part of the ongoing negotiations.
The broader conflict triggered by the October 2023 attack resulted in significant loss of life, with over 1,200 fatalities reported in Israel and at least 71,660 deaths in Gaza, according to local health authorities. This conflict continues to devastate the region, leaving deep emotional scars and raising urgent questions about peace and stability moving forward.
