Remains of Israeli hostage who ‘bravely fought’ to protect his community are brought back home

Israeli Hostage’s Body Returned After 763 Days

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that the body of Lior Rudaev, an Israeli hostage who was said to have “fought heroically” to protect his community amid intense conflict on October 7, 2023, has been returned for burial.

Rudaev, 61, was reportedly captured by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization during this tragic day of violence, and his military service was highlighted in the announcement. According to a statement, he died while defending Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak and was stolen away to Gaza after his passing.

The Hostage and Missing Families Forum shared that after 763 days, Rudaev’s body was finally brought home. On that fateful morning, he and a local emergency response team engaged with terrorists, managing to halt several of them before he was killed.

Tragically, his body was taken to Gaza alongside another victim, Tal Haymi. Eventually, it was returned to Israel for burial at the wishes of his family.

As of now, the IDF has indicated that Rudaev was confirmed deceased on May 7, 2024. He leaves behind a wife and four children, which surely adds an immense layer of sorrow to an already heartbreaking situation.

In light of ongoing negotiations with Hamas, the IDF expressed condolences to the bereaved families, emphasizing their commitment to retrieving all deceased hostages and fulfilling the terms of the existing ceasefire agreement. “Hamas must, of course, do their part to ensure all hostages are returned and are laid to rest with dignity,” they stated.

The Hostage and Missing Families Forum added that Rudaev was born in Argentina and moved to Israel at seven. He was known for his generosity and dedication, having served for four decades as an ambulance driver and actively participating in emergency responses. Friends described him as always eager to help anyone in need.