Israel said on Wednesday that the remains handed over by Hamas belonged to Staff Sergeant Itay Chen, an Israeli-American soldier captured in October 2023.

The Prime Minister’s Office said, “Following the completion of the identification process… IDF representatives informed the family of the fallen hostage, Staff Sergeant Itay Chen, that their loved one has been returned to Israel and positively identified.”

The Israeli military also confirmed his identity in a separate statement.

Captured During the Gaza Attack

Chen, 19, was serving near the Gaza border when Hamas and its allies attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. He sent his last message to his parents as the assault began.

The IDF announced his death in March 2024, saying he died in combat and his body was taken into Gaza. Hamas returned his remains on Tuesday evening under a ceasefire deal mediated by US President Donald Trump.

Family’s Grief and Plea

Before the return, Chen’s parents spoke to AFP, sharing their pain and hopes.

His father, Ruby Chen, said, “We feel the support of the entire nation, the people are behind us and want to see all the hostages returned.” He urged Israel’s leaders to act. “I hope the prime minister and the chief of staff understand this too – seize the opportunity (of the ceasefire) to finish this mission,” he added.

His mother, Hagit Chen, expressed deep sorrow. “I will not be able to take a single step forward in my life without Itay’s return,” she said. “Even when we break down, which happens every day, I remind myself that we have not finished our mission. We miss him; the pain is unbearable.”

Ongoing Hostage Exchange

Chen is the 21st deceased hostage whose remains Hamas has returned since the Gaza ceasefire began on October 10.

At the start of the truce, Hamas held 48 hostages — 20 alive and 28 dead. The group has since released all the surviving captives.

Among the 21 deceased hostages repatriated are 19 Israelis, one Thai, and one Nepali.

Hamas Faces Recovery Challenges

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said the group was working to finish the return process. “We are working to complete the entire exchange process as soon as possible,” he said.

He added that Hamas faced difficulties because many bodies were buried under Gaza’s rubble. The group called on mediators and the Red Cross to help with equipment and personnel. “We are working on completing the process of handing over the bodies of the Israeli captives despite the difficulties and obstacles,” Qassem added.

Body Found in Gaza City

Earlier on Tuesday, Hamas said Chen’s body was found in the Shujaiya neighbourhood east of Gaza City during search and excavation operations. The recovery took place inside “the yellow line,” referring to areas near Israeli military positions in Gaza.

Israel has accused Hamas of delaying the return of remains, while Hamas says the destruction in Gaza has slowed their efforts.