Israel announced the recovery of the remains of three hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. The Israeli military confirmed that the bodies of Yonatan Samerano, 21, Ofra Keidar, 70, and Shay Levinson, 19, were found and returned to their families. All three had been killed during the surprise assault that triggered the ongoing war in the region.

The return of Samerano’s body coincided with what would have been his 23rd birthday. His father, Kobi Samerano, expressed his grief and pride in a heartfelt post, saying, “You came back to us, beloved son, wrapped in the light of heroism, of faith, of a whole nation.”

Since the October 7 attack where approximately 1,200 Israelis were killed and 251 abducted—Israel has been engaged in relentless military operations across Gaza. Although over half of the hostages have been returned through deals and rescue operations, about 50 remain in Hamas custody. Israeli authorities believe fewer than 25 of them are still alive.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to recovering all hostages. “The campaign to return the hostages continues consistently and is happening alongside the campaign against Iran,” he said. “We will not rest until we return all of our abductees home both the living and the dead.”

Families of hostages continue to press for a comprehensive agreement to free the remaining captives. A representative organization, the Hostages Families Forum, urged Israeli leadership to prioritize this goal above all others, stating that the return of the hostages is the true measure of victory.

Hamas, however, has demanded far-reaching concessions in exchange for the remaining hostages: the release of more Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel has rejected these terms, vowing to continue its campaign until Hamas is defeated or disarmed.