Did Israel Recover the Body of Hostage Meny Godard from Gaza?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Israel has announced the recovery of Meny Godard's remains from Gaza, bringing closure to his family after the tragic events of October 7. This development underscores ongoing tensions and the complex efforts surrounding hostage situations in the region. Discover the details behind this significant recovery and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- Meny Godard was a hostage whose remains were recovered from Gaza.
- His family has been notified and is preparing for burial.
- The IDF continues to push for the return of deceased hostages.
- This recovery underscores the ongoing conflict's human toll.
- Efforts to return hostages remain a critical issue in Israeli-Palestinian relations.
Jerusalem, Nov 14 (NationPress) On Friday, Israel announced the recovery of the remains of a deceased hostage named Meny Godard, who had been held by militants in the Gaza Strip.
Following the identification procedure, officials informed Godard's family that his remains had been returned for burial, as stated by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Godard's body was delivered to the Red Cross in Gaza on Thursday night before being transferred to Israel, where forensic specialists confirmed his identity.
The 73-year-old Godard and his wife were killed outside their residence in Kibbutz Be'eri during an attack led by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. His body was subsequently taken to Gaza.
He was declared deceased on August 12, 2023, leaving behind four children and seven grandchildren. His wife, the late Ayelet Goddard, was also a victim of the Kibbutz attack.
In a statement, the IDF expressed its condolences to the family and reaffirmed its commitment to making every effort to recover deceased abductees.
The IDF stated that Hamas must adhere to its obligations and take all necessary measures to return the remains of deceased hostages to their families for proper burial.
Earlier this week, Israeli forces received the remains of a hostage whose body had been held by Hamas for over 11 years, according to the Israeli Prime Minister's office.
On Sunday, Xinhua reported that Hamas announced the handover of the body of Goldin, an army officer who was killed during Israel's 2014 Gaza conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later confirmed that the remains were believed to be Goldin's.
During his weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu remarked that over the past 11 years, successive Israeli governments had made extensive efforts to secure Goldin's return, allowing his family to finally lay him to rest in Israel.
As reported by the al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing, Goldin's remains were discovered on Saturday within a tunnel in the Yebna refugee camp in Rafah, southern Gaza. This marks the first recovery operation in Rafah since a ceasefire took effect on October 10, with the city predominantly under Israeli control.
Point of View
It is essential to present this news with sensitivity and impartiality. The recovery of Meny Godard's remains not only highlights the personal tragedies faced by families affected by conflict but also reflects the broader issues of hostage situations and the responsibilities of militant groups. Our focus remains on delivering accurate and respectful coverage of such complex matters.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Meny Godard?
Meny Godard was a 73-year-old man who was taken hostage during a Hamas-led attack in southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
How did Israel recover Godard's body?
Israel recovered Godard's remains after they were handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross in Gaza.
What was the response from the Israeli government?
The Israeli government expressed its condolences to Godard's family and reaffirmed its commitment to returning deceased hostages.
What happened to Godard's wife?
Meny Godard's wife, Ayelet Goddard, was also killed in the same attack that claimed his life.
Are there any other recent recoveries of hostages?
Yes, earlier this week, Israel received the remains of another hostage, Goldin, who had been held for over 11 years.
