On Monday, Israel confirmed the return of Staff Sgt. Ran Gvili’s remains, marking the recovery of the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza.

Gvili, a 24-year-old officer with the Israel Police, hailed from Meitar. He lost his life on October 7, 2023, during a confrontation with Hamas terrorists near Kibbutz Alumim. Following the clash, his body was taken to Gaza, as detailed in a statement by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

“Ran was a man of immense heart, known for his broad shoulders and radiant smile,” the forum expressed. “A cherished friend, loved by all, he embraced life with strong values, engaging with others at eye level, and exuding a calm yet compelling presence.”

Gvili leaves behind his parents, Talik and Itzik, along with his brother Omri, sister Shira, and a wider family network.

In Tel Aviv, during a rally held on January 23, 2026, participants displayed signs featuring Ran Gvili’s photo. The demonstration called for the return of his body, which had been held in Gaza since the fateful confrontation with Hamas militants. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said following the completion of an identification process conducted by Israel’s National Institute of Forensic Medicine, in coordination with police and military authorities, officials informed the Gvili family that their loved one’s remains had been identified and would be returned for burial.

The IDF expressed condolences to the family and said all hostages have now been returned from Gaza to Israel.

This is a breaking news story; check back for updates.