After 11 years, the body of Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israeli soldier held by Hamas as 2014, has been returned to Israel, bringing a somber end to years of uncertainty for his family and the nation. The return occurred November 9, 2025, in a ceremony within the Gaza Strip, facilitated by an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Goldin’s remains were then brought back to Israel for burial.
The repatriation of Goldin’s body marks a significant, though bittersweet, progress in the ongoing efforts to secure the return of all hostages held by Hamas.For over a decade, the Goldin family has tirelessly campaigned for his return, becoming a symbol of the broader struggle faced by families of Israelis missing or held captive.This event underscores the immense human cost of the conflict and the complex negotiations surrounding hostage releases, while renewing calls for the return of other missing Israelis and the remains of fallen soldiers.
Goldin, 23 at the time of his death, was killed in action on august 1, 2014, during fighting in the Gaza Strip. He was a platoon commander in the Givati Brigade’s reconnaissance unit, having completed the officers’ course with distinction. Born in Eshhar and raised in kfar Saba,he was the son of Leah and Simcha,and the twin brother of Tzur,with older siblings Ayelet and Chemi. He and his twin brother Tzur shared passions for painting, music, and youth counseling within the Bnei Akiva movement, and both studied at the Bnei david pre-military academy in Eli.
Those who served alongside Goldin remember him as compassionate, modest, and deeply dedicated to his soldiers and country. Just months before his death, he proposed to his fiancée, Edna Sarussi, with wedding plans already underway.
In the years following his death,several educational initiatives were established in goldin’s memory,including a pre-military academy designed to foster unity,leadership,and moral integrity among a diverse group of students – religious and secular,new immigrants,and at-risk youth – embodying the values he championed.
