Israel has expressed serious concern over delays in the return of the remains of Hadar Goldin, an Israeli soldier killed in 2014 during Operation Protective Edge. Goldin’s body has been held in Gaza for over a decade, and Israeli authorities are demanding its immediate repatriation.

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IDF Prepared for Arrival of Remains

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were on standby to receive the remains of a deceased hostage, potentially Goldin, following reports that Hamas recovered his body in Rafah, southern Gaza. The IDF’s Southern Command indicated that excavations by Hamas removed seven bodies from the area, with Goldin’s among them, though these claims have not been independently verified.

The remains were expected to be transferred to the National Center for Forensic Medicine in Abu Kabir for identification and verification.

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IDF Leadership Visits Goldin Family

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir personally visited the Goldin family’s home to provide updates on efforts to secure the return of Goldin and all other fallen hostages. The IDF emphasized the importance of restraint and careful verification during these sensitive operations.

“The chief of staff reiterated his personal and the IDF’s commitment to bringing back Hadar and all the fallen hostages,” the military said.

The Goldin family expressed hope and patience, acknowledging the nationwide anticipation for his return.

“An entire country is waiting for Hadar to be returned to us,” the family said. “We are waiting for news of official confirmation. Until it’s confirmed, it’s not over.”

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Historical Context: Operation Protective Edge

Goldin was killed on August 1, 2014, while dismantling a Hamas terror tunnel in Rafah. He was initially believed to have been taken captive alive, but the IDF later confirmed that he had been killed before his body was removed by Hamas.

Despite his remains being held, a partial funeral was held at the time, attended by thousands, as the Israeli Military Rabbinate deemed sufficient evidence existed to honor him. Goldin’s case has remained a central point of concern for Israel, symbolizing the broader issue of hostages and bodies held by Hamas.

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Hamas’ Role and Delays

Late last month, sources indicated that Hamas knew Goldin’s burial location but had delayed returning his remains. Reports suggest that Hamas may have been seeking leverage in ongoing negotiations or strategic considerations in Gaza.

Israel has stressed that any further delay is unacceptable, emphasizing the humanitarian and national importance of promptly returning Goldin’s body.

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Key Takeaways

• Israel views delays in the return of Hadar Goldin’s remains as serious, demanding immediate action.
• Goldin was killed on August 1, 2014, during Operation Protective Edge while dismantling a Hamas tunnel in Rafah.
• The IDF was prepared to receive the remains for forensic verification at Abu Kabir.
• IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir personally updated Goldin’s family on recovery efforts.
• Hamas claimed to have recovered Goldin’s body, though verification is pending.
• The Goldin family and the nation await official confirmation before concluding the process.