Israel at War: Week 120
Thank God the last of the hostages has been released and is coming home! The body of 24 year old police Master Sergeant Ran Gvili, who was killed defending Kibbutz Alumim on October 7, 2023, has been found. After 843 days his family can finally lay him to rest in Israel. He was found buried in a Muslim cemetery, after information regarding his location was confirmed. In a joint operation the IDF and Shin Bet together found Gvili’s remains.
Gvili’s parents, Itzik and his wife Talik, strongly urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to not progress to Phase Two of the cease fire until Ran’s body was returned, though the prime minister was being strongly urged to do so by American envoys Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner. With Rani’s discovery and return, the plan can honestly proceed; all of the hostages have been released or their remains have been returned. He was recovered Monday January 26, 2026.
Here are some responses from those who knew and loved him. His sister exclaimed, “Rani is coming home!” The Hostage Forum said of him, “He was the first one in and the last one out.” Over his casket, Itzik, his father said, “I am proud of you my son!” We can agree with him and salute him. His funeral will be Wednesday, January 28 in his hometown of Meitar. Please uphold the family in prayer. “May his memory be a blessing.”
(Source: timesofisrael.com)
