UPDATE: An emotional wave swept through central Israel today as tens of thousands gathered for the funeral of Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israeli soldier whose remains were returned after 11 years in Gaza. The massive crowd spilled into surrounding streets, waving Israeli flags and standing in solemn silence as Goldin was finally laid to rest.
Goldin’s remains were handed over by Hamas on October 29, 2023, as part of a ceasefire deal brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump following escalating tensions in the region. His return marks a poignant conclusion to a decade-long campaign led by his family, who traveled the globe demanding justice for their lost son.
“Hadar, we waited for you 11 years, that’s a long time. I honestly can’t explain how we did it,” said his mother, Leah Goldin, at the gravesite. “I still believed you would jump up and say ‘Everything is fine!’” Goldin was only 23 years old when he was killed in August 2014, just two hours after a ceasefire took effect during the war between Israel and Hamas.
The family’s relentless campaign turned Goldin into a national symbol, with posters of him visible across Israel for years. His sister, Ayelet Goldin, described the moment of his return as “historic,” stating, “Now that you’re here, I understand how sacred and profound it is to bring you home.”
As the funeral unfolded, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was notably absent, but Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the military chief of staff, spoke on behalf of the military. Benny Gantz, who served as chief of staff during Goldin’s abduction, also attended the service. In a powerful statement, Goldin’s twin brother, Tzur Goldin, asserted, “Hamas’ kidnapping of bodies is attempting to destroy families and destroy Israel from the inside.”
The 2014 war that claimed Goldin’s life resulted in over 2,200 Palestinian and 73 Israeli deaths. Israel’s military response to his abduction led to a massive assault on Rafah, which drew international criticism for its devastating civilian toll.
In a symbolic act of closure, on Tuesday, the Israeli military announced the dismantling of the Rafah tunnel from which Goldin was taken. Many Israelis view this moment as the resolution of one of the most painful chapters in the ongoing struggle with Hamas.
The emotional toll of Goldin’s absence has resonated deeply in Israel, with his family’s fight symbolizing the broader struggle of many families affected by the conflict. As citizens reflect on this moment, it emphasizes the urgency of addressing the ongoing hostilities in the region.
As the nation mourns, the implications of Goldin’s return reverberate, marking a step towards healing for the families of those lost to the enduring conflict. The Goldin family’s campaign and the return of his remains serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
