Are the Remains of Israeli Soldier Hadar Goldin Finally Transferred to Israel?
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Synopsis
The remains of Israeli soldier Hadar Goldin, held by Hamas since 2014, have been transferred to Israel. This significant development marks the culmination of years of efforts by Israeli governments and brings closure to Goldin's family. The remains will undergo identification at the national forensic institute, revealing a poignant chapter in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Key Takeaways
- Hadar Goldin's remains transferred to Israel after 11 years.
- The remains will undergo identification at Tel Aviv's national forensic institute.
- Israeli government efforts aimed at securing Goldin's return.
- The ongoing conflict continues to affect many families.
- Four bodies still remain in Gaza, raising questions about future negotiations.
Jerusalem, Nov 10 (NationPress) Israeli forces have received the remains of a hostage from the Red Cross in Gaza, believed to belong to Israeli soldier Hadar Goldin, whose body has been held by Hamas for the past 11 years, according to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office.
The remains are currently being sent to Israel's national forensic institute in Tel Aviv for identification, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Earlier on Sunday, Hamas announced it was delivering Goldin's body, an army officer who lost his life during Israel's 2014 Gaza war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later confirmed that the remains were believed to be Goldin's.
During his weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu stated that over the 11 years that Goldin's body was held by Hamas, "successive Israeli governments have made significant efforts to secure his return, amid the profound anguish of his family, who will now finally be able to give him a proper burial in Israel."
According to the al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, Goldin's body was discovered on Saturday in a tunnel located in the Yebna refugee camp in Rafah, southern Gaza. This marks the first reported recovery operation in Rafah since a ceasefire came into effect on Oct. 10. The region remains predominantly under Israeli control, and residents have yet to be allowed to return.
In a separate statement, the Brigades held Israel "fully responsible for the clashes" with their fighters in Rafah, who are defending themselves in an area under Israeli control. They urged mediators to ensure the ceasefire continues, noting that recovering the remaining bodies necessitates additional personnel and technical equipment.
Prior to the delivery of the remains on Sunday, Hamas had returned the remains of 23 hostages to Israel. If the latest remains are confirmed as Goldin's, four bodies would still be in Gaza—three Israelis and one Thai national abducted during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023.
Gaza health authorities reported that Israel has released the remains of approximately 300 Palestinians, most of whom remain unidentified. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli strikes and demolitions in Gaza have persisted, resulting in hundreds of casualties. The ministry indicated that the overall death toll from Israeli strikes since October 2023 has reached 69,169.
Point of View
It is important to approach this story with sensitivity and balance. The transfer of Hadar Goldin's remains is not only a moment of closure for his family but also a reflection of the broader complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Our commitment is to report the facts with integrity while acknowledging the emotional weight this event carries for both sides.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Hadar Goldin?
Hadar Goldin was an Israeli soldier who was killed during the 2014 Gaza war and whose remains were held by Hamas for 11 years.
Why were Goldin's remains held by Hamas?
Goldin's remains were reportedly held by Hamas as part of their ongoing conflict with Israel.
What is the significance of the remains being returned?
The return of Goldin's remains is significant as it represents a culmination of efforts over many years by Israeli governments to secure his return and provides closure for his family.
What are the current conditions in Gaza?
Despite a ceasefire, tensions remain high in Gaza, with reports of ongoing strikes and significant casualties.
How many bodies are still unaccounted for?
If Goldin's remains are confirmed, four bodies remain unaccounted for, including three Israelis and one Thai national abducted during recent hostilities.
