Israeli Authorities Confirm Hostage’s Identity
Israeli officials have disclosed that the remains returned on Wednesday belong to Sudisak Rintalak. This revelation indicates that Israeli police officer Ran Gviri is now the final hostage in Gaza.
Rintalak, a Thai national, had moved to Israel to support his family back home. He was tragically killed during the attack on October 7, 2023. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that Rintalak’s body was recovered from an orchard in Kibbutz Be’eri, an area severely affected by violence. Following this, his remains were taken to Gaza where they were held by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the region’s second-largest terrorist group.
In an official statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office noted that Rintalak’s remains will be sent back to Thailand for a proper burial, coordinated with the Thai embassy in Israel.
“The Israeli government expresses profound condolences to Rintalak’s family, the Thai community, and all families of the deceased hostages,” the statement said. It also mentioned that the Rintalak family, along with the Thai Ambassador, expressed gratitude towards the State of Israel for their efforts in returning Sudisak and supporting the family since the conflict began.
Efforts to Recover Last Hostage
The Prime Minister’s office emphasized its commitment to bringing Sergeant Ran Gviri, described as a hero of the National Counter-Terrorism Forces, back for a dignified burial.
According to the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, Rintalak hailed from Rattanawapi in Nong Khai province. Family members shared that his favorite food was tomato omelets. He is survived by his parents and a brother.
Rintalak’s mother Ong reflected on their last conversation before the tragedy, noting, “October 7 was the last time we spoke. He told us he wanted to save more money and return home for good. Then the attack happened, and he was taken from us. I just want my son back.” She waits for him every day, hoping to see him again.
Concerns About Remaining Hostages
Ran Gviri, the last hostage, was killed during the same attack on October 7, with his body remaining in Gaza since the incident. Gviri’s mother expressed her fears and concerns in a heartfelt piece, stating, “Initially, there were 255 hostages. Our families became united, supporting each other through every difficult moment. Every return felt like reclaiming a part of ourselves.” She voiced a haunting worry about being left behind as the last two relatives remain unaccounted for.
