Israel Receives Remains of Soldier Killed in 2014 Gaza Conflict

Israel has received the remains of Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israeli soldier killed during the 2014 conflict with Hamas. The Red Cross facilitated the transfer of Goldin's remains from Gaza to Israeli authorities on Sunday.

Goldin, 23, was killed on August 1, 2014, shortly after a ceasefire took effect. His body had been held in Gaza since then.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the prolonged suffering of Goldin's family, stating that they would now be able to provide him with a Jewish burial.

The return of Goldin's remains is part of a broader ceasefire agreement initiated on October 10, 2025, aimed at concluding the conflict that began in 2023. Under this agreement, Hamas has released 20 living hostages and the bodies of 24 deceased hostages, with four more remains still in Gaza. In return, Israel has released nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and returned the remains of 300 Palestinians.

Goldin's family had led a public campaign to bring his remains home for burial. His mother, Leah Goldin, emphasized the ethical and religious importance of returning her son's body, highlighting the commitment Israel makes to its soldiers.

The return of Goldin's remains marks a significant development in the ongoing truce between Israel and Hamas, providing closure to his family after more than a decade.