Hostage's Remains Identified
The body of Lior Rudaeff, a 61-year-old Argentine-Israeli hostage, was returned to Israel by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad on Friday night, November 7, 2025. Following forensic identification, Israeli authorities confirmed his identity on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The transfer took place in Gaza, with the remains subsequently transported to the Abu Kabir forensic institute in Tel Aviv for the identification process. Reports indicate the body was discovered in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
Details of the October 7 Attack
Lior Rudaeff, a resident of Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak, was killed during the brutal October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. He was a dedicated volunteer ambulance driver for over 40 years and a member of the kibbutz's emergency response team. Rudaeff was actively defending his community when he was killed, and his body was then abducted to Gaza. His death was officially confirmed by Israeli authorities in May 2024.
Ceasefire Agreement and Ongoing Returns
The return of Rudaeff's body is part of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement. Under the terms of this agreement, Hamas committed to returning the remains of 28 deceased hostages. Lior Rudaeff is the 23rd deceased hostage whose body has been returned under this deal. In exchange for the return of Israeli and foreign hostages' bodies, Israel has returned the bodies of Palestinian individuals.
Family's Relief and Remaining Hostages
Rudaeff's family expressed profound relief at his return, stating that '763 days of nightmare' were finally over. His daughter, Noam, posted on social media, 'Now you are home, now you are here.' The Hostages and Missing Families Forum also welcomed the return, noting that it provides 'some measure of comfort to a family that has lived with agonizing uncertainty and doubt for over two years.' However, the forum reiterated its commitment to bringing all hostages home, as the bodies of five more deceased hostages are still believed to be held in Gaza.
6 Comments
Fuerza
The return of Rudaeff's body is a positive step towards humanitarian resolution, but it highlights the tragic reality that these lives were lost in the first place. We must remember the ongoing plight of all remaining hostages, living and deceased.
Manolo Noriega
While it's a relief for the Rudaeff family to finally have Lior home, it's a stark reminder of the brutality of October 7th and the many still suffering. This return is bittersweet, offering closure amidst immense pain.
Fuerza
Good to see the agreement yielding results, even if it's tragic returns.
Ongania
This news brings a small measure of comfort to one family, yet it underscores the grim toll of this conflict. While identifying and returning remains is crucial, it doesn't erase the underlying issues that led to these atrocities.
Fuerza
One can only imagine the family's relief, but it's a hollow victory when considering the circumstances of his death and abduction. The focus must remain on securing the release of all captives, not just the deceased.
lettlelenok
Still 5 more bodies, and living hostages. This 'agreement' is a farce.