The Israel Defense Forces confirmed on Monday that the remains of Staff Sergeant Itay Chen, a 19-year-old dual U.S.–Israeli citizen and the last American citizen held by Hamas, have been recovered. Seven additional deceased hostages’ remains are still located in Gaza.
“Upon the conclusion of the identification process by the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, in collaboration with the Israel Police and the Military Rabbinate, IDF representatives notified the family that Itay had been brought back for burial,” the military announced.
Chen was a combat soldier within the 77th Battalion of the 7th Armored Brigade. He was killed on the morning of October 7, 2023, during combat near Kibbutz Nahal Oz—a community severely impacted by Hamas’s violent assault. Chen’s tank was hit during the engagement, and his body was subsequently taken into Gaza. His death was formally confirmed on March 10, 2024.
Itay was the middle child of three brothers. He was raised in Netanya, a city in central Israel, pursued an advanced academic program, and was recognized for his warmth, wit, and commitment. He had a passion for basketball, hiking, and rock climbing, and prior to military service, he served as a camp counselor. Even after suffering an injury at camp, he insisted on completing the summer to provide a positive example for the children he guided. He later enlisted as an armored-corps soldier, motivated by a profound sense of duty to safeguard others. He is survived by his parents, Ruby and Hagit, and his brothers, Roi and Alon.
Over the past year, his parents spearheaded an unwavering campaign to secure their son’s return home. They held meetings with senior officials in Israel and Washington, including , advocating for the and the remains of the fallen.
“The Government of Israel shares in the profound sorrow of the Chen family and all the families of the fallen hostages,” the stated in a release. “We will not make compromises and will exert every effort until every hostage is returned home. May his memory be blessed.”
The commented, “Itay’s return offers a degree of relief to a family that endured distressing uncertainty for over two years. We will not cease our efforts until the final hostage is brought back.”
Chen’s burial ceremony is scheduled to occur this week with complete military honors.