Israel Confirms Identity of Deceased Hostage Returned by Hamas as Meny Godard

Israeli authorities have confirmed that the body returned by Hamas is that of Meny Godard, a 73-year-old resident of Kibbutz Be'eri. Godard was killed during the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, and his body was subsequently taken to Gaza.

The transfer was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the remains were identified by Israel's National Center of Forensic Medicine.

Godard, a former professional soccer player and veteran of the 1973 Mideast War, was remembered as a devoted kibbutz member who loved sports, the ocean, and community life.

The Israeli government expressed its commitment to recovering all hostages, stating, "The Government and the entire establishment for the missing and the captives of the State of Israel are determined, committed, and working tirelessly to return all of our fallen hostages for proper burial in their country."

This development leaves three deceased hostages' remains still held in Gaza.