Aviv was abducted along with his mother Doron and his sister Raz (4 years old) from his grandmother Efrat's home in Nir Oz. Efrat was murdered in the attack. Efrat's partner, Gadi Moses, and Doron's brother (Aviv's uncle) were also abducted from their homes to Gaza. Doron, Aviv, and Raz live in Ganot Hadar in Sharon. Aviv and Raz's father, Yoni Asher, stayed home and did not join the trip to Nir Oz. He received a video that was also released to the media, showing his wife and two daughters in Hamas captivity. Doron Katz-Asher and her daughters Aviv and Raz were released from captivity as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Little Yahel was abducted along with her father Tal, her mother Adi, her 8-year-old brother Nave, and her grandmother Dr. Shoshan Haran, when they were visiting her grandmother in Be'eri. Her great-aunt Sharon Avigdori and Sharon's daughter Noam were also abducted. Her grandfather Avshalom Haran, her great-aunt Lilach Kipnis and Lilach's husband Eviatar Kipnis were murdered, as well as Eviatar's Filipino caretaker, Paul Vincent Castelvi. Nave and Yahel were released along with their mother Adi as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. His father Tal was released in a deal after 505 days in captivity on February 22, 2025.

Emma, age 3, was abducted along with her twin sister Yuli and their parents Sharon and David, from their home in Nir Oz. Additional family members were also abducted. The twins and their aunt, Sharon, were released as part of the fourth phase of the hostage-prisonar exchange deal on November 27, 2023. Their father David and uncle Ariel remain in Gaza as captives.

Yuli, age 3, was abducted along with her twin sister Emma and their parents Sharon and David, from their home in Nir Oz. Additional family members were also abducted. The twins and their aunt, Sharon, were released as part of the fourth phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 27, 2023. Their father David and uncle Ariel remain in Gaza as captives.

Avigail, a 4-year-old American-Israeli citizen, was orphaned when her parents were killed on October 7. She was taken hostage during the attacks. Her handover marked the first successful release of an American hostage under the truce between Israel and Hamas. Avigail was the youngest American hostage, according to officials. She was 3 years old when abducted, and turned 4 while she was being held in Gaza. Source: CNN

Oria was abducted from his home in Kfar Aza along with his mother, Hagar, and his two siblings, Yuval and Ofri. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum says Oria is a "happy, energetic boy who loves making a mess and playing soccer in the back garden." Avichai, their father, survived the attack and launched hostage family protests in front of the Kirya. Avichai, a member of Kfar Aza's emergency response team, went out to protect the kibbutz. When he left the house at 6:50, he saw Avigail Idan who had managed to escape the hands of her father, Roy Idan, who was murdered. She had wandered outside, and he took her to the shelter in his home with Hagar and his children, she was kidnapped with them. After around 11:00, communication was lost. Hagar, Oria, Yuval, and Ofri were released from captivity as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023. Avigail was also released with them.

5-year-old Emilia was kidnapped along with her mother, Danielle, from Kibbutz Nir Oz while visiting Danielle's sister, Sharon. They live in Yavne. Her aunt, Sharon Alony-Cunio, Sharon's husband David Cunio, and their twin daughters Emma and Yuli, age three, were also kidnapped the same day. Danielle and Emilia Alony were released from captivity as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Raz was abducted along with his mother, Doron, and his sister, Aviv (two and a half years old) from her grandmother's house in Nir Oz. Her grandmother, Efrat, was murdered in the attack. Efrat's partner, Gadi Moses, and Doron's brother (Raz's uncle) were also abducted from their homes to Gaza. Doron, Raz, and Aviv live in Ganot Hadar in Sharon. Raz and Aviv's father, Yoni Asher, stayed home and did not join the trip to Nir Oz. He received a video that was also released to the media, showing his wife and two daughters in Hamas captivity. Doron Katz-Asher and her daughters Aviv and Raz were released from captivity as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

The “kindhearted” 8-year-old was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with her sister, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. She is “a gifted painter” who “always knows what she wants." Source: CNN

Nave was abducted along with his parents, Tal and Adi, and his 3-year-old sister Yahel from his grandmother's house in Be'eri. His grandmother, Shoshan Haran, his great-aunt Sharon Avigdori, and Sharon's daughter Noam were also kidnapped. His grandfather, Avshalom Haran, his great-aunt Lilach Kipnis, and Lilach's husband Eviatar Kipnis, were murdered, as well as Eviatar's Filipino caretaker, Paul Vincent Castelvi. Nave loves to play soccer, relax on the carpet with Legos, or bake cookies with his mother. Nave and Yahel were released along with their mother Adi as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. His father, Tal, was released in a deal after 505 days in captivity on February 22, 2025.

Yuval was abducted from his home in Kfar Aza along with his mother, Hagar, and his two siblings, Ofri and Oria. Yuval is a soccer fan and loves playing video games with his older brother. Avichai, their father, survived the attack and launched hostage family protests in front of the Kirya. Avichai, a member of Kfar Aza's emergency response team, went out to protect the kibbutz. When he left the house at 6:50, he saw Avigail Idan who had managed to escape the hands of her father, Roy Idan, who was murdered. She had wandered outside, and he took her to the shelter in his home with Hagar and his children, she was kidnapped with them. After around 11:00, communication was lost. Hagar, Oria, Yuval, and Ofri were released from captivity as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023. Avigail was also released with them.

Emily was sleeping over at her friend Hila Rotem-Shoshani's house in Kibbutz Be'eri when the two of them were kidnapped along with Hila's mom, Raaya Rotem. When the siren sounded on Saturday morning, her father, Thomas Hand, was unable to get in touch with Raaya. Initially, Emily was thought to have been killed in the attack on the Kibbutz. Thomas told CNN in an interview that he was releived thinking that Emily had been murdered and was not suffering in captivity in Gaza. Weeks later, the family received indications that Emily might be still alive as they had not located her body and didn’t find any blood in the home where she was sleeping. Emily loves the singer Beyonce and loves to dance and sing. On November 17, her family commemorated her 9th birthday without her. Emily's mother passed away from cancer a few years ago. Her father's ex-wife, Narkis, who was like a second mother to Emily, was killed in the attack on Kibbutz Be'eri. Emily was released from captivity along with her friend Hila as part of the second phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. After her release, an emotional video was released of her running into her father’s arms. Thomas says Emily had lost weight and he’d never seen her so pale but "she’s coming out slowly, little by little." Hila's mother, Raaya, was released on November 29, 2023.

Ohad and his parents live in Kfar Saba. Ohad went with his mother Keren to visit family in Nir Oz and they were kidnapped from his grandparent's house along with his grandparents Avraham and Ruti Munder. Keren is an outstanding and award-winning teacher for physical education and children with special needs. She has played volleyball since she was a child and is a volleyball coach for children. She is partners with Avi Zichri who raises her son Ohad with her. Ohad is a student at The Democratic School in Kfar Saba, loves soccer, is a champion Rubik's cube solver, and raises birds with her father. Ohad's 9th birthday was on October 23rd, 2023 while he was still in captivity. Keren and Ohad were released from captivity, along with Keren's mother, Ruti Munder, as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Tal was kidnapped along with his mother, Chen, and his two siblings, 11-year-old Gal and 17-year-old Agam, from their home in Kfar Aza. His father Nadav and sister Yam, a soldier, were killed. On Saturday morning, Chen and Nadav entered the shelter without their phones, while Yam handled all the communication with the outside world from within the family shelter and tried to reach out to anyone who could help. The last contact with the family was at 12:00. When the forces arrived, they found Yam and Nadav's bodies in the house. Tal Goldstein-Almog plays basketball, has a flair for cartoon drawing and studies twice a week in a gifted students class. Chen and the three children were released in the third phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023.

Ofri celebrated her 10th birthday with her family the day before the kidnapping. On Saturday morning, she was kidnapped along with her mother Hagar and her two younger brothers, Yuval and Oria, from their home in Kfar Aza. Avichai, their father, survived the attack and launched hostage family protests in front of the Kirya. Avichai, a member of Kfar Aza's emergency response team, went out to protect the kibbutz. When he left the house at 6:50, he saw Avigail Idan who had managed to escape the hands of her father, Roy Idan, who was murdered. She had wandered outside, and he took her to the shelter in his home with Hagar and his children, she was kidnapped with them. After around 11:00, communication was lost. Hagar, Oria, Yuval, and Ofri were released from captivity as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023. Avigail was also released with them.

Gal was kidnapped along with his mother, Chen, and his two siblings, 8-year-old Tal and 17-year-old Agam, from their home in Kfar Aza. His father Nadav and sister Yam, a soldier, were killed. On Saturday morning, Chen and Nadav entered the shelter without their phones, while Yam handled all the communication with the outside world from within the family shelter and tried to reach out to anyone who could help. The last contact with the family was at 12:00. When the forces arrived, they found Yam and Nadav's bodies in the house. Gal is a sports fan who particularly likes soccer and basketball. Chen and the three children were released in the third phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023.

Yuval, her mother Karina, and her sister Mika were abducted from their home's shelter in Nir Oz on Saturday morning. Her father, Ronen, was armed and went to fight the terrorists that had infiltrated the kibbutz. Her older brother, Tom, was not at home at that day and was saved. When they arrived at the kibbutz to evacuate the families, they were not at home. Ronen was also not found. The terrorists uploaded a story and pictures of them from his phone. Yuval is a cheerful and energetic girl who loves hiking with her family. She is an animal lover with two dogs and she enjoys riding horses. Karina, Mika, and Yuval were released on November 27, 2023. Four days after their release, the family was informed Ronen had been murdered on October 7, 2023 and he remains in Hamas captivity.

Eitan Yahalomi was abducted from Nir Oz. His father Ohad was taken separately from him. On October 7th, the entire Yahalomi family was captured. The terrorists managed to break down the door of the family's safe room and shot at Ohad, Eitan's father. Ohad was injured and remained at the house, and communication with him was cut from that moment. They took hold of his mother Bat Sheva and his two sisters on one motorbike and Eitan was on another. Bat Sheva with great courage managed to jump off the motorbike while still holding her two daughters and did not stopping running until she reached a safe place. Eitan remained alone. Eitan loves and dreams of soccer and plays in the Eshkol league. He studies in a science class and loves animals. Eitan was released on November 27th. His father remains abducted in Gaza.

Erez was abducted along with his 16-year-old sister Sahar and their father Ofer from their home in Nir Oz. His cousin, Noya Dan, 12 years old, and grandmother Carmela, 80 years old, were murdered. Erez enjoys riding horses and motorbikes, playing ping pong and soccer, and playing the trumpet. He also likes to ride horses and mountain bikes. Sahar and Erez were released on November 27, 2023. Ofir remains kidnapped in Gaza. Their father, Ofer, remained in captivity a couple hundred more days and was released on February 1, 2025 in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Noam was abducted from the music festival in Re'im by Hamas along with her mother, Sharon, while visiting family in Be'eri, where Sharon's brother, Avshalom Haran, lived. Avshalom was murdered. His wife, Shoshan Haran was kidnapped along with her daughter, Adi, Adi's husband Tal, and their children Nave and Yahel. Shoshan's sister, Lilach Kipnis, and her husband, Eviatar Kipnis, were murdered. Eviatar's Filipino therapist, Paul Vincent Castelvi, was also murdered. The house and the shelter where 8 family members lived was set on fire by the terrorists. Sharon and Noam were returned to Israel in the second phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25th, 2023.

Alma was abducted from her home in Be'eri along with her brother Noam, her father Dror, and her cousin Liam. Her mother, Yonat, a well-known furniture designer, was murdered. Her older sister, Yali, who had not been home that weekend, was spared. Alma and Noam were released from captivity as part of the second phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Her cousin Liam was released on November 29, 2023. On May 2, 2024, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Dror was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas. Dror's body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 25, 2025.

Gali was abducted from Kibbutz Be'eri. For a month she was declared missing until her parents were informed that she had been kidnapped. On the Black Sabbath, Gali and her brother Lior (16) were at the house of their father, Eliya, in Be'eri. Their mother was at another house in the kibbutz. Eliya and the children said that Hamas were shooting at the door and burning the safe room from outside. Eliya and Gali managed to jump out of the window, but Lior couldn't get out and was trapped in the room. Eliya and Gali split up because of the gunshots. Eliya hid for six hours until he was rescued. Gali disappeared. Gali is a lively and funny girl, surrounded by friends, loves to make non-stop TikToks, and is amazing at making desserts. She also excels at volleyball, and in the summer she was in a training camp in Serbia with her team. Her beloved dog, Mocha, was killed by the terrorists. She has a dream of establishing a shelter for abandoned dogs. Gali was released from Hamas captivity in the hostage-prisoner deal on November 29, 2023.

Hila and her mother, Raaya, were abducted from their home in Be'eri along with Hila's friend, Emily Hand, who had been sleeping over. Their families were only informed of their kidnapping three weeks later. At around 11:00, Hila's father, Rami, spoke with her mother, Raaya, who told him that they were hiding from the terrorists, after which the connection was cut and her phone was powered off. The family at one point came across a video of women being taken in a trailer to the Gaza Strip and identified Hila and her mother. Hila was released from captivity as part of the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Emily Hand was released with her. Her mother was released a few days later on November 29, 2023.

Yagil and his 16-year-old brother Or, were kidnapped from their mother Renana's house in Nir Oz. They called their mother in fear and whispered that they heard Arabic voices and the sound of the door breaking. Renana heard Arabic voices in the background and just barely managed to hear her youngest son Yagil saying, "Don't take me, I'm too young." Their father, Yair, was also kidnapped from his home in the kibbutz, along with his partner Meirav Tal. The family describes Yagil as "a curious, intelligent, sharp, and quick-thinking child. He has a sense of humor and is always surrounded by friends. He has a TikTok account that he had kept active." The Islamic Jihad published a video of Yagil on November 9, 2023 and announced that they were "ready to release" him, but it did not happen at that time. Yagil has a life-threatening allergy and his mother feared that he would be exposed and suffer a severe attack. Yagil and Or were released on November 27, 2023, Meirav was released the next day on November 28, 2023. On February 15, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Yair was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas in captivity. Yair's body was recovered on June 11, 2025. Yagil's 13th birthday occured while he was in captivity.

Dafna was kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz along with her sister, Ela. According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, she is a “happy and joyful girl” who is often surrounded by friends. The group said she is a keen artist and also likes to make TikTok videos. Source: CNN

Amit was abducted from his home in Be'eri in front of his mother, Tal, and two sisters after seven terrorists broke into the family's safe room on October 7. Around 12:30, he was loaded onto a car with two other men. Amidst the inferno, his "Juventus" jersey, for the soccer team he's a fan of, remained unharmed. The family called on the team to put pressure on his release. His 16th birthday fell on October 21, 2023 while he was still in Hamas captivity. Amit was released from Hamas captivity in a hostage deal on November 29, 2023.

Or and his 12-year-old brother Yagil were kidnapped from their mother Renana's house in Nir Oz. They called their mother in fear and whispered that they heard Arabic voices and the sound of the door breaking. Renana heard Arabic voices in the background and just barely managed to hear her youngest son Yagil saying, "Don't take me, I'm too young." Their father, Yair, was also kidnapped from his home in the kibbutz, along with his partner Meirav Tal. The family describes Or as "a sensitive boy with a gentle soul, quiet and shy. Loved by those around him. Addicted to Fortnite and loves to work out in the gym. A child with self-discipline and determination who knows how to set goals for himself and achieve them, very independent and a very good student." The Islamic Jihad published a video of his younger brother, Yagil, on November 9, 2023, and announced that they were "ready to release" him, but it did not happen at that time. Yagil and Or were released on November 27, 2023, Meirav was released the next day on November 28, 2023. On February 15, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Yair was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas in captivity. Yair's body was recovered on June 11, 2025.

Sahar was abducted along with her 12-year-old brother Erez and her father Ofer from their home in Nir Oz. Her cousin, Noya Dan, 12 years old, and grandmother Carmela, 80 years old, were murdered. Sahar loves to dance, draw, and sculpt. She’s also a music lover, keen on K-Pop and Billie Eilish, and she plays the bass guitar. Her mother, Hadas Kalderon, is waiting for them and is leading the fight for their release. They have two other siblings from their mother's side and two other siblings from their father's side. Sahar and Erez were released on November 27, 2023. Their father, Ofer, remained in captivity a couple hundred more days and was released on February 1, 2025 in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Agam was abducted along with her mother, Chen, and her two brothers, 11-year-old Gal and 8-year-old Tal from their home in Kfar Aza. Her father Nadav and sister Yam, a soldier, were killed. On Saturday morning, Chen and Nadav entered the shelter without their phones, while Yam handled all the communication with the outside world from within the family shelter and tried to reach out to anyone who could help. The last contact with the family was at 12:00. When the forces arrived, they found Yam and Nadav's bodies in the house. Chen and the three children were released in the third phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023.

Aisha was abducted along with her father Youssef and her two brothers, Hamza and Bilal, from Kibbutz Holit. Youssef had been working in a dairy farm for the past 19 years in Kibbutz Holit, together with his three children. On Hamas channels, pictures of Hamza and Bilal were shown with an armed Hamas terrorist standing over them. Youssef and Aisha were also pictured. From the pictures, it is assumed that they were abducted. Aisha was released as part of the seventh hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 30th, along with her 18-year-old brother Bilal. Hamza and Youssef, who did not meet the criteria for release, remain in captivity.

Mia and her mother Gabriela came from Jerusalem to visit Gabriela's sister Clara in Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak. The two of them came to take part in Clara's granddaughter's birthday celebration. Mia and Gabriela were abducted together with Clara, Clara's partner Luis, and Clara and Gabriela's brother Fernando. The last time the family was in contact, Luis told his daughter that the terrorists were inside the house, breaking everything. The army only arrived at 4:00 and the family was already gone. In the house there are signs of gunfire, the closests were taken apart and their possessions were ransacked. Gabriela and Mia were released as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023, together with Gabriela's sister Clara. Gabriela and Clara's brother Fernando and Clara's partner Luis remain in captivity. Upon her release from captivity, it was revealed that Mia was held in captivity together with her beloved dog Bella, and was released with her. Her uncle, Fernando, and aunt's partner, Luis Norberto, were released in an undercover operation conducted by security forces on February 12, 2024.

Noam was abducted from his home in Be'eri along with his sister Alma, his father Dror, and his cousin Liam. His mother, Yonat, a well-known furniture designer, was murdered. His older brother, Yali, who was not at home that weekend, was spared. Alma and Noam were released from captivity as part of the second hostage-prisoner exchange on November 25th, 2023. His cousin Liam was released on November 29th, 2023. On May 2, 2024, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Dror was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas. Dror's body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 25, 2025.

Ofir was abducted from his girlfriend Yuval's house in Kibbutz Be'eri when he was visiting for Shabbat. He was taken along with Yuval's father, Yossi Sharabi. Yuval's mother said: "We were in the safe room and three terrorists entered our home speaking Arabic. The girls hid under the blanket and Yossi guarded the door to the safe room. After ten seconds, the door opened and they burst in with weapons drawn. My youngest daughter was in a tank top. One of the terrorists took a shirt from a laundry bag and asked her to put it on. When we got to the road, they put us all together, there were about ten of us, multiple families. They shouted at my husband Yossi and at Ofir to get into the car there. They got into the car and drove away." Ofir played basketball in the Hapoel Jerusalem club and was hoping to transfer to playing in Eshkol to be close to his friends. Ofir was released as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 29, 2023. Kibbutz Be'eri announced on January 16, 2024 that Yossi Sharabi was murdered after he appeared in a Hamas propaganda video. Yossi was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 13, 2025.

Bilal was abducted along with his father Youssef and two siblings, Hamza and Aisha, from Kibbutz Holit. Youssef had been working in a dairy farm for the past 19 years in Kibbutz Holit, together with his three children. On Hamas channels, pictures of Hamza and Bilal were shown with an armed Hamas terrorist standing over them. Youssef and Aisha were also pictured. From the pictures, it is assumed that they were abducted. Bilal and his younger sister Aisha were released as part of the seventh hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 30, 2023. Hamza and Youssef remain in captivity.

Itay was kidnapped from the music festival in Re'im together with his older sister, Maya, 21. On Friday evening, they had returned from a 3-week trip to Mexico with their family and went straight to the festival after, along with their friend Omer Shem Tov. Maya called her father and said to him, "They are shooting at me, they are shooting at me, this is it, I'm dead". Later, the family identified Itay and Omer in a Hamas video, when they were seen together on a truck. Later, the family was informed that Maya was also abducted. Maya was released from captivity in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023, injured in her leg, and Itay was released a few days later on November 29, 2023. Omer Shem Tov was released on February 22, 2025 after 505 days in captivity.

Liam was abducted from Kibbutz Be'eri along with his uncle Dror and his cousins Alma and Noam. Liam lives in Kibbutz Re'im and was hosting his family. Alma and Noam were released from captivity under the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Liam was released a few days later on November 29. On May 2, 2024, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Dror was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas. Dror's body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 25, 2025.

Mika, her mother Karina, and her sister Yuval were abducted from their home's shelter in Nir Oz on Saturday morning. Her father, Ronen, was armed and went to fight the terrorists that had infiltrated the kibbutz. Her older brother, Tom, was not at home at that day and was saved. Mika had just finished her studies at school with honors. Instead of drafting, she did a year of national service where she worked with children with special needs. When they arrived at the kibbutz to evacuate the families, they were not at home. Ronen was also not found. The terrorists uploaded a story and pictures of them from his phone. Karina, Mika, and Yuval were released on November 27, 2023. Four days after their release, the family was informed Ronen had been murdered on October 7, 2023 and he remains in Hamas captivity.

Natalie and her mother Yehudit from Evanston, a suburb outside of Chicago, traveled to Israel last month to visit relatives in the southern kibbutz of Nahal Oz. They were kidnapped from their family's house by Hamas gunmen and released two weeks later on October 21, 2023 for "humanitarian reasons" and not as part of any deal.

Noga was kidnapped together with her mother Shiri from their home in Kibbutz Be'eri. Her father, Ilan, was murdered. Shiri and 17-year-old Noga were at home at the time of the attack. Ilan, as a member of the kibbutz emergency team, went out to fight. When the terrorists entered the house, Noga hid under the bed and reported to the family's WhatsApp group that her mother had been kidnapped. After Shiri was abducted, the terrorists set fire to the house, and Noga, following her older sister's advice, escaped through the shelter window and hid behind a bush. At 11:30, she sent a message that a terrorist was approaching and then communication had been lost. Shiri and Noga were released in the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Ilan was murdered during the attack and on August 28, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered to Israel.

Liri, a lookout soldier, was kidnapped from the shelter at the Nahal Oz outpost while wearing only pajamas. She had arrived at the base just two days before her abduction, immediately after completing her training course. She dreams of becoming a makeup artist. Her boyfriend was injured a year and a half before her abduction and she had been taking care of him with great devotion. In May 2024, the families of the kidnapped lookout soldiers publcized a video filmed by Hamas terrorists during the abduction. In the footage, Liri is seen injured and freightened, asking the captors for "someone who speaks English." Released hostages later recounted that Liri was forced to clean the family's bathrooms and cook meals for them, food she was not allowed to eat herself. She was later taken down to the tunnels. Her 19th birthday fell on February 4, 2024 while she remained in captivity. In January 2025, another sign of life from Liri was released in a distressing video. On January 25, 2025, she was released along with Daniela Gilboa, Karina Ariev, and Naama Levy in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Ori Megidish, who served as a lookout soldier, was abducted by Hamas forces from the Nahal Oz outpost on October 7th. She was rescued in a special operation by the IDF and Shin Bet on October 30th, 2023. On the day of her abduction, she was reported to have been handcuffed along with two other lookouts in a shelter.

Agam, a lookout soldier, was abducted with her friends from Nahal Oz. Her family identified her in a Telegram video released by Hamas where she was seen being forced into a car while wearing pajamas. Shortly before she was kidnapped, she had called her father to tell him about the rocket fire. Agam is a talented violinist. Agam's father, Shlomi, revealed the first and only sign of life her family received. It was a phone call he received from Agam Goldstein-Almog who was released in the hostage deal at the end of November, and she asked her to send him a birthday card from his daughter who remained in captivity. On January 30, 2025, Agam was released from captivity in the third release of the 2025 hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Karina, a lookout soldier, was abducted from the Nahal Oz base. The family received a video in which she was seen kidnapped by Hamas. At 6:30 am, she called her father and said there were shootings, she cried out a scream and got disconnected. Later, the family came across a Telegram video in which she was seen kidnapped in a car with two other girls and bruises on her face. The family describes her as a gentle girl with a big heart, "even when she called and cried, she asked us not to cry, not to go looking for her, to continue with our lives". Karina had her parents and younger sister, Sasha, waiting for her return. On January 26, 2024, Hamas published a video showing a sign of life from Karina, along with Daniela Gilboa and Doron Steinbrecher. August 4, 2024 marked Karina's 20th birthday, while she remained in captivity. On January 25, 2025, she was released along with Daniela Gilboa, Liri Albag, and Naama Levy in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Nimrod was abducted with his friends from Nahal Oz. His family watched Hamas videos and identified him in one of the videos. His mother Vicki says he is a sensitive, introverted and quiet kid, with a big heart who does not argue with others, and that he loves his friends very much. The Cohen family lives in Rehovot, where his family, particularly his twin sister, Romi Cohen, are active in the local branch of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which organizes rallies and gatherings. Nimrod was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Naama was abducted along with her lookout soldier friends from Nahal Oz. On Saturday morning at 6:55, she wrote to her mother that they were in a shelter and since then there has been no contact. She was seen in a video getting into a car in Gaza wearing pants covered in blood. Her mother, Ayalet Levy-Shachar, said that since the age of 10 Naama had loved sports. She is athletic, strong physically and mentally, with a quiet and focused personality. She is determined to do the half Iron Man triathalon in Eilat. Along with her whole family, she is a fan of Hapoel Be'er Sheva Football Club. Naama turned 20 on June 22, 2024 while she remained in captivity. On January 25, 2025, she was released along with Daniela Gilboa, Karina Ariev, and Liri Albag in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Daniela, a lookout soldier at the Nahal Oz base, was kidnapped while wearing her pajamas. When the attack began, she wrote to her mother: "They are attacking us, pray for us". There is a blurry video in which she can be seen on one of the vehicles that were on their way into Gaza, her family was able to identify her shirt. Her family members describe her as a full of life young woman, a singer and songwriter who wrote and composed songs. She has a young sister, and a boyfriend Roi, who had been waiting for her at home with her family. On January 26, 2024, Hamas released a propaganda video showing a sign of life from Daniela along with Karina Ariev and Doron Steinbrecher. In July, her family allowed the full video from her captivity to be broadcast in which she addresses her family: "I miss you all so much and love you - Mom, Dad, Noni, Roiko. I ask that you stay strong and do everything you can to bring me home while I'm still alive." March 27, 2024 marked Daniela's 20th birthday while she remained in Hamas captivity. On January 25, 2025, she was released along with Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, and Naama Levy in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Edan came to Israel without his parents and was kidnapped from the Gaza Envelope area. His mother, Yael, visited Israel exactly a week before his kidnapping and they were able to spend a few days together. When the sirens started, he called to reassure her, but soon after, he lost contact. He graduated from New Jersey's Tenafly High School just a year prior. His parents, Yael and Adi, and two younger brothers live in Tenafly, New Jersey and were waiting for his return. Edan's 21st birthday fell on December 29, 2024 while he remained in captivity. On May 12, 2025, as a result of talks between the US and Hamas and as a tribute to President Trump, Edan was released after 584 days in captivity.

Rom worked in security at the music festival in Re'im and was abducted from there. He was declared missing and his family later received a message that he had been kidnapped. He was last seen in the Re'im area on Saturday at 2:00pm. Mark Mizrahi, who was at the festival with him, said that Rom guarded the group bravely. "When a group of unarmed Arabs approached us, Rom told us all to gather stones, sticks and whatever was around and to scare them away. And it worked, they really left us." Mark added: "He tried to move two girls' bodies so they wouldn't be taken to Gaza, until they fired an RPG at us and everyone just ran away. Since then, his whereabouts have been unknown." Rom was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Matan was abducted from Nahal Oz where he was in a tank with 3 other soldiers defending the Kibbutz. Matan loves fitness and working out. On October 13, 2025, he was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Omer was kidnapped from the Re'im music festival. He was at the festival with his siblings Itay and Maya Regev who were also kidnapped. He tried to escape by car. Omer called his parents several times, sounding more panicked each time he called. He told them there were shootings and that he was seeing dead bodies. He sent them his live location and they saw the marker advancing towards Gaza. They tried to call him but he didn't answer. Maya was released in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023 and Itay was released on November 29, 2023. Omer was released on February 22, 2025 after 505 days in captivity.

Maya was abducted from the music festival in Re'im together with her younger brother, Itay, 18. On Friday evening, they had returned from a 3-week trip to Mexico with their family and went straight to the festival after, along with their friend Omer Shem Tov. Maya called her father and said to him, "They are shooting at me, they are shooting at me, this is it, I'm dead". Later, the family identified Itay and Omer in a Hamas video, when they were seen together on a truck. Later, the family was informed that Maya was also abducted. Maya had already bought a flight ticket to South America in December. She had planned to travel with her mother to the Far East and to study at a university. Maya was released from captivity in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023, injured in her leg, and Itay was released a few days later on November 29, 2023. Omer Shem Tov was released on February 22, 2025 after 505 days in captivity.

Mia Schem was abducted from the festival in Re'im. She was the first hostage that was shown to be alive, when Hamas publicized a clip of her speaking. "I am currently in Gaza", Mia said in the clip. "I returned early in the morning on Saturday from the Sderot area. I was at the festival, I was badly injured in the hand. They took me to Gaza, they operated on my hand here at the hospital for three hours. They are taking care of me, treating me, and giving me medications". After the clip was publicized, her mother said that she appeared very frightened and it looks like they told her what to say. Mia was at the nature festival in Re'im with her boyfriend, Elia Toledano, who was also abducted, separately from her. At 7:17 she sent WhatsApp messages to one of the festival organizers, saying, "They're shooting at us, come save us". According to testimonies, terrorists shot at the car of Mia and her friend, and they were forced to split up. Mia was released in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 30, 2023.

Almog was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. He was supposed to start his dream job at a tech company right after the holiday of Sukkot. To celebrate the start of this chapter in his life, he wanted to go to the Nova nature festival in Re'im with his friends. "He really loves nature festivals," said Orit Meir, Almog's mother. "At a quarter to eight in the morning, the phone rang, Almog was on the line and sounded distressed. He said to me: 'Mom, do you hear the news? Turn on the TV, you won't understand, there are bullets from all directions and they're shooting at us, I'm hiding here, I don't know what will happen, I'll try to stay in touch every half hour.' It was clear that he was in danger, so I turned on the TV and saw what was happening. My daughter started posting pictures of Almog on social media and asking if anyone had seen him." Almog's 22nd birthday fell on May 11, 2024 while he was still in captivity. On June 8, 2024, Almog was rescued alive in a special operation by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Yamam after 246 days in Hamas captivity along with Noa Argamani, Shlomi Ziv and Andrey Kozlov.

Omer was abducted from the Re'im music festival. On Saturday morning, Hamas released pictures of him with his hands tied up, suffering and beaten up, and also a video of him lying in a truck while the terrorists were over his head. Omer suffers from Crohn's disease and his family is pressuring the Red Cross to get the medication he needs. During the shooting at the festival, Omer hid in one of the bathrooms and from there he wrote to his mother. The last sentence he wrote to her was "I'm scared to death". Omer's 23rd birthday fell on May 22, 2024 while he remained in captivity. He was released on February 22, 2025 after 505 days in captivity.

Guy traveled to the music festival in Re'im with his friend Evyatar David who was also abducted. A video of Guy in Gaza surfaced where he appeared to be handcuffed. Guy planned to go on a big trip after his army service in a few weeks to Japan and had already started learning Japanese. On February 22, 2025, Hamas released a disturbing sign of life of the two friends, Guy and Evyatar. In the video, they appear to be watching the ceremony of the hostage release of Eliya Cohen, Omer Shem Tov, and Omer Wenkert. On October 13, 2025, Guy was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Bar is a medic in United Hatzalah who worked as a security guard at the Re'im music festival. His friends saw him in a Hamas video, handcuffed and lying on the floor, and according to his family, he was heard calling out his name clearly. In recent years, he has become the main provider of the family, after his father went into assisted living. His mother is currently dealing with a difficult fracture, and his two younger brothers are managing the affairs. The family's bank accounts are frozen by law. Bar was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Alon was abducted from the Re'im music festival. He had arrived at the festival with four friends at 5:30 in the morning, shortly before the attack began. Through correspondence with his family, they understood from him that he was in a shelter and that everything was fine. According to testimonies, when the shooting began, they got into the car and drove off to hide in a shelter, towards which the terrorists threw grenades. Alon and others threw the grenades back out so that they would not explode on them, but the terrorists went in and took him and two others in the car. Later, they were also identified in a Hamas video. Two of his friends were killed. Alon is a talented musician and pianist, he majored in music. Music is an inseparable part of his life. Only a month before the attack, he returned from a six-month trip to the East. Alon turned 24 years old on February 10, 2025, while still in Hamas captivity. On October 13, 2025, he was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Evyatar was abducted from the music festival in Re'im along with his childhood friend Guy Gilboa-Dalal. They had been at the festival with Idan Hermati and Ron Tzarfati, who were both killed. In the morning of the attack, Evyatar told his mother on the phone that there were rocket attacks and he has not been heard from since. Later that day, Hamas released a video of him on Telegram, lying on the ground, frightened, while someone shone a flashlight on him. Later, another video was released showing him with his hands ties up being dragged by a terrorist who had one hand on Evyatar's shoulder and a gun in his other hand. Evyatar is a talented musician who plays acoustic and classical guitar. He is the son of Gilia and Avishai, has an older brother, Ilay, age 26, and a younger sister Yaela, age 18. On February 22, 2025, Hamas released a disturbing sign of life of the two friends, Guy and Evyatar. In the video, they appear to be watching the ceremony of the hostage release of Eliya Cohen, Omer Shem Tov, and Omer Wenkert. Evyatar was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Yosef Chaim Ohana was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. His relatives say that he and the friends he was with at the party started to help the wounded and get them to medics and ambulances. "They tried to run towards the main road, but then he saw they were shooting towards him and his friend with an RPG. Yosef Chaim ran to the left, and his friend ran to the right and hid under a car. His friend was injured by the missile, and managed to see Yosef Chaim peeking from behind the car where he had hidden. After that he was not seen again". Yosef Chaim worked as a bartender at Aria in Tel Aviv. He dreamed of studying something in the field of coaching. Last year he stayed with his grandmother, since she lived in the center and it was convenient for him with work. His mother said: "I am a single mother, and he always helps me. He even payed my rent once." Yosef was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Romi was abducted from the Re'im music festival. Two of the people in the car with her were killed - her close friends Gaya Halifa and Ben Shimoni, who had returned three times to save people. Ofir Sarfati was also in the car with her; his family received news of his abduction after about three weeks. Her mother, Meirav, said: "Romi is a strong, happy and content girl. She is a typical Israeli girl, full of positive energy, people are drawn to her wherever she goes, she is full of light and responsibility. I did not worry, because I trusted her and Gaya with all my heart." Meirav is at the forefront of the fight to bring back the hostages. Romi turned 24 years old on August 18, 2024 while in captivity. On January 19, 2025, she was released along with Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Eitan arrived at the festival in Re'im as a security guard. His parents, Sabbath observers, had no idea he was at the festival. In the morning of the event, he spoke with his uncle. According to those who last saw him, he was seen moving two girl's bodies to a safe place. His father, Tzvika, who attended the first meeting between Netanyahu and the families of the abductees, said he was opposed to an exchange that would bring the release of terrorists. On October 13, 2025, he was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Matan Zangauker, originally from Nir Oz, was abducted along with his girlfriend Ilana Gritzevski from their home in Nir Oz. He communicated with his family from the safe room, first trying to calm down his mother, but later writing: "They are here; they are in the house" and "I love you, don't cry." His last three messages were: "Here." His family say that because of his parents' divorce, Matan had always been mature, with a strong work ethic, contributing to the family income and helping his younger sisters, introverted and humble, and putting others before his own well-being. Matan was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Roni Krivoi, a Israeli-Russian dual citizen, was released as a special case, outside of the parameters of the Israel-Hamas temporary truce, which did not allow for the release of adult men. Hamas credited his release to the intervention of Russian President Vladimir Putin and “the supportive Russian position for the Palestinian cause.” He was captured on October 7 while attending the Nova music festival. Source: CNN

Segev was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. He recently embarked on a new journey in the world of finance after working for years in the family business. Segev was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Thai farmer who worked in the avocado orchard in the Gaza Envelope. At the start of the attack, he uploaded a live broadcast and documented the rocket fire toward the Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 29, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 25, 2023

Noa was abducted from the festival in Re'im, along with her boyfriend Avinatan Or. She was filmed while being taken away on a motorcycle by Hamas members. The video that went viral and shocked the world showed her being separated from her boyfriend, screaming, "Don't kill me". Noa is the only child of her parents Yaakov and Liora, who is of Chinese descent. She is an Information Systems student at Ben-Gurion University. After her army service, she worked in Eilat, and then travelled for a year in South America. Her mother, Liora, is currently undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. Noa had accompanied her to the treatments and had been taking care of her. Although Noa does not have Chinese citizenship, Liora has appealed to the Chinese Embassy for help. On January 15, 2024, a Hamas video was published showing a sign of life from Noa. On June 8, 2024, Noa was rescued alive in a special operation by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Yamam after 246 days in Hamas captivity along with Andrey Kozlov, Shlomi Ziv and Almog Meir-Jan.

Gali and his twin brother Ziv were kidnapped from Kfar Aza. They live together in the "young generation" neighborhood of the kibbutz, a neighborhood that is right next to the fence. The brothers have been childhood friends with each other since day one and worked together at the amplification company. They travelled around the world and both are fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv and Liverpool FC. They played in the village football team "Kfar Aza Foxes". On October 7th, Ziv was in his room and Gali was visiting a friend two houses away. Ten days later, the family received a message from IDF officers that the brothers were likely kidnapped. Their parents and their eldest brother Idan managed to escape the attack. On October 13, 2025, Gali was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Ziv and his twin brother Gali were kidnapped from Kfar Aza. They live together in the "young generation" neighborhood of the kibbutz, a neighborhood that is right next to the fence. The brothers have been childhood friends with each other since day one and worked together at the amplification company. They travelled around the world and both are fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv and Liverpool FC. They played in the village football team "Kfar Aza Foxes". On October 7th, Ziv was in his room and Gali was visiting a friend two houses away. Ten days later, the family received a message from IDF officers that the brothers were likely kidnapped. Their parents and their eldest brother Idan managed to escape the attack. On October 13, 2025, Gali was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Ariel was in kibbutz Nir Oz with his girlfriend Arbel Yehoud, who was also abducted. Ariel is the brother of David Cunio, who was also taken hostage with his entire family. Recently, Ariel and Arbel returned from a long trip to South America. Ariel was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Eliya Cohen was abducted from the festival in Re'im. He went to the festival with his girlfriend, Ziv. When the massacre started, the two fled, and grenades and RPGs were thrown at them. Ziv fell, and bodies fell on top of her, and that's how she survived. Eliya was injured. According to the description, they looked at each other and held hands, he managed to say that he was injured and he was fine, but then someone pulled him out from the pile of bodies. Eliya used to be a party planner, and now he works in sales and started dealing with real estate. He comes from a religious family in Tzur Hadassah, and became secular by age 16. Eliya is the eldest brother of three sisters. His father is disabled, and due to the sitation, his mental state has deteriorated. According to his family, Eliya planned to propose to Ziv. His mother says he is a sensitive and empathetic person, with many friends in Israel and around the world. "I am sure he takes care of the babies in Gaza, plays with them, and looks after them." April 23, 2024 marked Eliya's 27th birthday while he remained in captivity. He was released from captivity on February 22, 2025 after 505 days in captivity.

Andrey was working as a security guard at the festival and after being declared missing for a long period of time, his family was informed by military sources that he was abducted. Andrey had moved from Russia a year and a half ago out of a love for the land. On June 8, 2024, Andrey was rescued alive in a special operation by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Yamam after 246 days in Hamas captivity along with Noa Argamani, Shlomi Ziv and Almog Meir-Jan.

Bannawat was a Thai farmer working in Moshav Yesha. He was shot and wounded in the leg before being kidnapped. He was released from captivity on January 30, 2025.

Emily was abducted from her home in Kfar Aza. Her brother Tom told The Independent: "We all miss Emily, looking forward for her coming back soon. She has been missing from Kfar Aza since Saturday, October 7. Her last message at 10am was that the terrorist was in her apartment and shooting at her. She’s missing so we presume she is in Gaza taken as hostage. There are 10-15 missing young people from the kibbutz Kfar Aza. I was also at the kibbutz with my wife and two daughters and with a little bit of luck we survived. I don’t want to talk to about it, I’m still processing it." Her friends say that Emily is everyone's friend, she is very popular and loved in the Kibbutzim and they are all waiting for her return. Emily turned 28 years old on June 10, 2024 while in captivity. On January 19, 2025, she was released along with Doron Steinbrecher and Romi Gonen in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

Alexander (Sasha) was abducted from his family's home in Nir Oz, along with his mother Lena, his partner Sapir Cohen, and his grandmother Irina Tati. His father Vitaly Trufanov was murdered. The Trufanov family immigrated to Israel from the Soviet Union 25 years ago and settled in the kibbutz. On the horrific Saturday, Sasha was visiting his parents with his wife Sapir Cohen and according to testimonies, they were all abducted to Gaza together. Alexander had been working for the past year at Amazon as a Cloud Engineer. Irina and Lena were released by Hamas as hostages for the release of Israeli citizens with Russian citizenship. They were released on November 29, 2023. Sapir was released the following day on November 30, 2023. Sasha remained in Hamas captivity. On May 28, 2024, the PIJ published a video of Trufanov, two days after his 28th birthday. Sasha was released from captivity as part of the first phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 15, 2025.

Anucha worked in avocado picking in Kibbutz Re'im together with five other Thai agricultural workers. They were all kidnapped by Hamas terrorists to the Gaza Strip. He said two of the six were murdered by the terrorists, including one of his best friends, who was shot dead in front of his eyes. Anucha was released, not as part of a deal, on November 25, 2023.

Wichai Kalapat is a Thai farmer who worked in Kibbutz Nir Oz and was abducted from the kibbutz. His wife was informed of his death on October 9 and was shocked to discover he was still alive when he was identified in pictures that were distributed by Hamas. He was released without a deal on November 24, 2023.

Arbel was abducted from Nir Oz along with her partner Ariel Cunio. Ariel's brother, David, was also captured along with his wife Danielle and two daughters, Emma and Yuli. Sharon, Emma, and Yuli were released on November 27, 2023. Arbel lived for a short period in the center of the country and six years ago she came back to live in Kibbutz Nir Oz. She is very interested in space research and astronomy and is involved in teaching these subjects in the Groove Tech campus in the Eshkol regional council. Initially, her brother, Dolev Yehoud, was considered kidnapped, but on June 3, 2024, it was announced that his body was identified in Israel and that he was murdered on October 7 as he left his home to help save lives in the Kibbutz. Arbel turned 29 on June 21, 2024 while she remained in captivity. On January 30, 2025, she was released as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal. Her partner remains in captivity.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Sapir was visiting family of her partner Alexander (Sasha) when they were both abducted together, along with her mother Yelena Trufanov and her grandmother Irena Tati. Sapir and Alexander had met a year and two months prior. Irena and Yelena were released by Hamas on November 29, 2023 in the release of Israeli citizens with Russian citizenship. Sapir was released the next day on November 30, 2023. Sasha was released in a deal 15 months later on February 15, 2025.

Shani is a citizen of Uruguay, which is where she was born and where her parents met. On the morning of October 7th, she was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz. In a video shared in Hamas channels, she is seen together with other civilians in a trailer with armed terrorists. Her face cannot be seen, but her family were able to identify her. Shani loves to play soccer and works with children in informal education in the kibbutz. Her brother says that "Shani is a very happy girl. She works with children, is a very meaningful figure in the kibbutz. She's always very funny, surrounded by friends, always inviting people to her house, loves people of her age and also adults". The 12-year-old hostage, Eitan Yahalomi, said when he was released that he met Shani who was his caretaker in his childhood, and she took care of him during the captivity and made sure he was okay, even giving him some of the food she received so he would have enough to eat. Shani was released from captivity on November 30th, 2023.

Ilana was abducted along with her partner, Matan Zangauker, from their home in Nir Oz. Ilana holds Mexican citizenship and her mother and siblings live in Mexico, where she had returned from only a few days ago. She works at a plant nursery. Ilana's last contact was with her friend. Last correspondence with Matan was more recent - just up until the moment he was taken. Ilana was released as part of the seventh hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 30, 2023. Matan remains in captivity.

Thai farmer kidnapped from Moshav Yesha. He was released from captivity on January 30, 2025.

Doron, a veterinary nurse, was in her apartment in Kibbutz Kfar Aza when she was abducted by Hamas. She takes daily medication and since her abduction she has not been able to receive it, causing serious health risks. Contact was lost after she sent a voice message at 10:30 on October 7, where she told her friends: "They've arrived, they have me." On January 26, 2024, Hamas released a propaganda video showing a sign of life from Doron along with Daniela Gilboa and Karina Ariev, 19 years old. Doron turned 31 on March 18, 2024 while in captivity. On January 19, 2025, she was released along with Romi Gonen and Emily Damari in the first phase of the 2025 deal.

The video of the kidnapping of Avinatan and his girlfriend Noa Argamani, who were attending the music festival in Re'im, made headlines around the world. Noa was taken away on a motorcycle by Hamas terrorists while screaming "Don't kill me!" Avinatan appears to have also been taken to Gaza. His family said that he and Noa were planning to move in together soon. Avinatan had completed a degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from Ben-Gurion University and works at Nvidia. During his studies, he volunteered at the children's oncology department in Soroka Hospital. He loves to read books, always loves to host, cook and take care of his friends. On June 8, 2024, Noa was rescued in a special operation by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Yamam. Avinatan was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Watchara is a Thai farmer who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7. He was released from captivity on January 30, 2025.

Jimmy has been the caregiver of Amitai Ben-Tzvi, who was murdered in Nir Oz, since November 2019. Amitai's children say that he worked and supported their father with devotion and kindness and formed a good relationship with the family. There is a video of Jimmy being kidnapped in Gaza. He was released without a negotiated deal on November 24, 2023.

A Thai farmer who worked at Kibbutz Nir Oz and was abducted along with Wichai Kalapat from the kibbutz. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Or Levy and his wife Inav Elkayam attended the Re'im music festival. They left the festival when the sirens went off at 6:30. They managed to get to the Kibbutz Re'im Junction and stopped at the "Migunit HaTzipor" (HaTzipor Shelter) – now nicknamed "Migunit HaMavet" (the Shelter of Death). Around 7:50, the terrorists arrived at the shelter. According to videos and testimonies of survivors, it is understood that the terrorists fired around 8 rifle rounds at the shelter and some of them entered and took hostages, one of them being Or. The terrorists took hostages, dragged them, and told them to get out. Afterwards, according to testimonies, they fired inside the shelter and a number of people who had lain down under the bodies managed to escape. Inav, Or's wife and mother of their son Almog, aged three, was murdered. Or turned 34 years old on July 28, 2024 while he remained in captivity. Or was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 8, 2025.

David, his wife Sharon, and their twins Emma and Yuli, were all abducted from their home in Nir Oz on Saturday, October 7. Sharon's sister, Danielle Alony, and her 6-year-old daughter, Emelia, were also taken. In addition, David's brother, Ariel, along with his partner Arbel Yehoud, were also abducted. Danielle Alony and Emilia were released in the first phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange on November 24, 2023. Sharon, Emma and Yuli were released on November 27, 2023. David was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Yarden was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz while injured. His wife, Shiri, was kidnapped from their home with their two young children - Ariel (4) and the infant Kfir who was only nine months old. The video of terrified Shiri embracing her two children in a blanket and being dragged away by Hamas terrorists became one of the symbols of the war and its horrors. Yarden was seen in another video being dragged by terrorists to Gaza. Hamas terrorists recorded a video of the moment they broke into the Bibas family home. They broke open the door with a screwdriver. Yarden texted his sister, "They broke into our house, it feels like the end. I'm scared, I've got pistols, but they have machine guns". Shiri's parents, Yosi and Margit Silverman, were killed. Friends say Yarden, from Kibbutz Tzalmon, is a sensitive, caring, funny person, a music lover, a stand-up comedian, and a paramedic in Ashkelon. Yarden turned 35 on October 10, 2024, while he remained in captivity. He was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 1, 2025 along with Ofer Kalderon. On February 20, 2025, the bodies of his sons, Kfir and Ariel, were returned in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal. The body Hamas claimed to be Shiri's was identified to not be hers. The next day, Hamas returned her body and it was identified. Shiri, Kfir, and Ariel were brutally murdered in captivity.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 29, 2023

Doron Katz-Asher, 34, and her daughters, two and a half year old Aviv Asher and four and a half year old Raz Asher, were abducted from Nir Oz. Doron and her daughters are from the village of Ganot Hadar in Sharon. Doron works as an accountant. They were visiting Doron's mother, Raz and Aviv's grandmother in Nir Oz. They were abducted from the kibbutz together with their grandmother's partner, Gadi Moses. Doron's mother, Efrat, was murdered. Doron's half brother, Ravid, was killed and his body is in Hamas captivity. Doron's husband, Yoni Asher, stayed at home and did not join the trip to Nir Oz. He received a video that was also published in the media, in which his wife and two daughters were seen in Hamas captivity. Doron Katz-Asher and his daughters Aviv and Raz were released from captivity as part of the first phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Sathian is a Thai farmer who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7. He was released from captivity on January 30, 2025.

Sharon was abducted from her home in Nir Oz along with her husband, David. Their two twin daughters, Emma and Yuli (3 years old), were also abducted. In addition, Sharon's sister, Danielle, and her sister-in-law, Emilia, were also abducted. David's brother, Ariel, his partner, Arbel Yehoud, were similarly abducted when they were at another house in the kibbutz. Danielle and Emilia were released from captivity in the first round of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. Sharon and her twin daughters were released in the fourth round of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 27, 2023. The twins' father, David, uncle Ariel, as well as siblings Arbel and Dolev Yehoud remain kidnapped in Gaza.

Elkana Bohbut was abducted from the Re'im festival where he worked as part of the production team. He sent his wife, Rivka, a message that there was gunfire and that he was helping people escape. At 08:00 he spoke with his parents and said that everything was okay. He was seen in a Hamas video, cowering in fear on the floor with other captives. His childhood friends, brothers Osher and Michael Vaknin, were killed. He is married and the father of a three-year-old son. Elkana was active in the party scene, setting up decorations for large events at the nightclub chain HaUman 17 and working for a production company. Elkana was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 29, 2023

Nutthawaree was abducted from the Gaza envelope. During her captivity, false rumors that she was pregnant were spread. She was released without a deal on November 24, 2023.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Sagui is married to Avital and is the father of 6-year-old Bar and 2-year-old Gili. He was kidnapped while his wife was pregnant with their third child. He and his wife own a grocery store called "Columbus" inside a bus that travels between the southern villages that lack a grocery store. His mother, Naomi Dekel-Chen, was abducted and was on a truck heading to Gaza when an IDF vehicle managed to stop them. She ran away and every time she saw terrorists, she pretended to be dead to save herself. Their third daughter was born on December 12, 2023 and Sagui turned 36 on August 9, 2024 while he remained in Hamas captivity. Sagui was released from captivity in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 15, 2025 and got to meet his daughter for the first time who was already a year and two months old.

Maxim Herkin was abducted from the music festival in Re'im by Hamas. His family says that this was his first trance rave. He lives in Tirat HaCarmel with his single mother and 11-year-old brother, acting as the family's support. He is also a father to a 3-year-old daughter. He had gone to the festival almost by chance after his friends had made a spontaneous last minute offer. He had planned to stay for a few hours and return home. When the first alert was issued, he sent a message to his mother saying, "Mom, everything is okay, I'm coming home slowly." A few minutes later he wrote, "Mom, I love you." Since then, she has not heard from him. Maxim was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

In early April 2015, Hisham al-Sayed, an Israeli citizen living in the south, crossed the border into the Gaza Strip. He was then abducted by Hamas. In June 2022, Hamas released a video of him lying on a bed awake and looking in different directions while wearing an oxygen mask. Hisham had been held captive by Hamas nearly ten years. He was returned to Israel as part of the 2025 hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 22, 2025 along with hostages kidnapped on October 7 and Avera Mengistu.

Pongsak is a Thai farmer kidnapped from Moshav Yesha. He has a 14-year-old daughter who waited for his return. Thaenna’s father, Wilart Thaenna, told The Wall Street Journal that he prays for his son’s safety every night and he spent several days in the first weeks after October 7 driving his motorbike around villages near the Cambodian border looking for anyone with Israeli relatives who could search for his missing son. Wilart demanded for the Thai government to negotiate for the release of his son. Pongsak was released from captivity on January 30, 2025.

Rimon Kirsht and her husband Yagev were abducted on October 7 by Hamas terrorists. The pair, who married two years ago, live in Kibbutz Nirim with their adopted five dogs and five cats. Kirsht, 36, practices alternative medicine and reflexology, and adores rock music – particularly Guns N’ Roses, U2 and Israeli bands HaYehudim and The Witches. She is a volunteer at Maslan, the Negev’s Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Support Center. Source: CNN

Yarden Roman-Gat, 36, is a mother of one who loves the outdoors and hiking. She is a physiotherapist and spends her free time volunteering as a caregiver to the elderly in the kibbutz. She was with her husband, Alon, and 3-year-old daughter, Gefen, on October 7 in Be’eri when they were taken hostage. According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the family managed to escape the van they had been bundled into, but Hamas attackers caught up with them. Yarden had, however, handed her daughter to her husband and the pair were able to escape. Yarden’s family put out a statement following her release, which said: "While celebrating this reunion, the fight for the return of all abductees continues. Carmel Gat, 39, Yarden's beloved sister-in-law, and one of the last young women held by Hamas, is still in captivity. We have good reason to believe she's alive, and the entire family will continue to fight for her until she comes back." Source: CNN

Eitan was abducted with his brother Yair when he came to visit him in Nir Oz. He is an informal educator who has long worked with different youth movements and served as an emissary in Peru. Yair, who works in construction, is heavily involved in Nir Oz, organizing parties and holiday activities and is responsible for the local kibbutz pub. Eitan turned 38 on September 23, 2024. Yair was released from captivity in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 15, 2025. Eitan was returned to Israel in the deal to the end the war on October 13, 2025.

Avera Mengistu while mentally unstable crossed the border into Gaza on September 7, 2014 from the area of Zikim and had since been held by Hamas. In January 2023, for the first time in years, the Hamas organization released a video showing Avera speaking broken Hebrew in captivity. Initially, security officials did not confirm the authenticity of the video, but later his mother said she identified him. The day after the video was released, Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed its authenticity. Avera grew up in Ashkelon with 11 brothers and sisters. They have been working for more than nine years to bring him back to Israel. On February 22, 2025, he was released from captivity in a a deal after being held captive for 3,821 days.

Adi, her husband Tal, and their two children, 8-year-old Nave and 3-year-old Shoham, came to visit family in Kibbutz Be'eri and were kidnapped together with Adi's mother Shoshan Haran, Shoshan's sister Sharon Avigdori, and Sharon's daughter Noam. Adi's father Avshalom was murdered. Her aunt Lilach Kipnis and Lilach's husband Eviatar Kipnis were also murdered as well as Eviatar's Filipino caregiver, Paul Vincent Castelvi. The shelter in which 8 of her family members were found was burned. Adi is a clinical psychologist who lives with her family in Ma'ale Tzviya. Adi and her two children Nave and Yahel were released from captivity as part of the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Adi's mother, Shoshan, was also released. Tal was released on February 22, 2025 as part of a deal after 505 days in captivity.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Tal, his wife Adi, and their two children traveled from Ma'ale Tzviya to visit Adi's parents in Kibbutz Be'eri. Tal and Adi were abducted with their children Nava, 8, and Yahel, 3, along with Adi's mother Doctor Shosh Haran, Adi's aunt Sharon Avigdori, and Sharon's 12-year-old daughter Noam Avigdori. Three family members were murdered - Tal's father-in-law, Avshalom Haran, Adi's aunt, Lilach Kipnis, and Lilach's husband Eviatar, along with Eviatar's caregiver, Paul Vincent Castelevi. The house, including the safe room where 8 family members hid, was found burned after it was set on fire by terrorists. Tal's father, Gilad, heard eyewitness testimony from a Kibbutz Be'eri member that Tal walked out and seemed injured as the terrorists threw him into the trunk of a car that was likely stolen from the kibbutz. Adi and the children Nava and Yahel were released from captivity on November 25, 2023, while Tal was left behind. Tal turned 40 in captivity on January 30, 2025. He was released in a deal after 505 days in captivity on February 22, 2025.

Amit Soussana lived by herself in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and was abducted while hiding in her property’s shelter. The 40-year-old is a lawyer who has three cats, listens to rock music and can be found on a tennis court in her spare time. Source: CNN

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Hagar was abducted from her home in Kfar Aza along with her three children: Ofri, who had just celebrated her 10th birthday, 8-year-old Yuval, and 4-year-old Oria. Hagar grew up in Kibbutz Gvulot but has been living in Kfar Aza with her husband for over a decade. She is a community manager, and the Hostages and Missing Families Forum says she enjoys "good coffee, going camping, traveling around Israel with her family and children, and listening to rock music." Avichai, their father, survived the attack and launched hostage family protests in front of the Kirya. Avichai, a member of Kfar Aza's emergency response team, went out to protect the kibbutz. When he left the house at 6:50, he saw Avigail Idan who had managed to escape the hands of her father, Roy Idan, who was murdered. She had wandered outside, and he took her to the shelter in his home with Hagar and his children, she was kidnapped with them. After around 11:00, communication was lost. Hagar, Oria, Yuval, and Ofri were released from captivity as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023. Avigail was also released with them.

Moran is a jewelry designer who came to the Re'im music festival to sell her designs. On October 7, she contacted her parents, informing them that she and some friends were fleeing in a car and then communication was lost. She was considered a hostage when she was seen in a video where a terrorist was above her while she hid in a pit. Her family describes her as a "young spirit, a beautiful girl, helper of everyone, volunteer in animal rescue centers, helper of the elderly, happy, and a seeker of peace". Moran was released from captivity in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 29, 2023.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 28, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 28, 2023

Shlomi was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. His sister Adi said "At 7:30 on Saturday morning, my brother called me and my mother to update us that he was part of the security team at the festival, he was a guard without a weapon. He updated us that the production was canceled, there were rockets and apparently also an infiltration of terrorists and that they were waiting in traffic to go home. He said to me, 'What luck, the terrorists did not reach us'. Around 8:15 my sister Revital called him, a few seconds conversation in which she heard him running, panting and saying to her 'Revital, I will get back to you'. The connection was then cut and since then we have not heard from him." Shlomi is married to Miran and lives in Elkosh. Recently he finished a course in interior design and was supposed to receive a certificate and start a new path in life. He worked together with Aviv Eliyahu, his wife's cousin, and his friend Jake Marlowe, in the festival's security team. Aviv and Jake were killed. Shlomi's 41st birthday was on January 21, 2024, while he was in captivity. On June 8, 2024, Shlomi was rescued alive in a special operation by the IDF, the Shin Bet, and Yamam after 246 days in Hamas captivity along with Noa Argamani, Andrey Kozlov, and Almog Meir-Jan.

Nili was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz. She works in children's emergency room at the Soroka Medical Center in Be'er Sheva. She has a dog named "Nechi Nech" and she loves Israeli singer and rapper Ravid Plotnik. Yocheved Lifshitz, who was released at the end of October, gave an update that she was with her in Gaza and that she was in good condition and helping take care of the wounded. Nili's family did not know her fate until Yocheved's release. Nili studied for a bachelor's degree in nursing at Ben Gurion University. After her studies, she began working as a nurse in the pediatric surgery department in Ichilov Hospital. After 5 years, Nili returned to her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz and began to work in the pediatric department in Soroka Medical Center. During her work, Nili studied two fundamental courses: emergency medicine and clinical instruction, and also got a Master's degree in health systems management. Nili's father, Eliyahu, was kidnapped to the Gaza Strip in unknown condition. Nili was released in the seventh phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 30th, 2023. The next day, the family was informed that Eliyahu was murdered in Hamas captivity.

Danielle Alony, 44, and her 5-year-old daughter, Emilia Alony, were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz while visiting Danielle's sister, Sharon. They live in Yavne. Danielle appeared in a Hamas video, along with two other hostages, Yelena Trufanov and Rimon Kirscht, while she spoke and they were by her side. Her sister, Sharon Alony-Cunio, was also kidnapped that morning along with her husband David Cunio, and their twin daughters Emma and Yuli, age three. David's brother, Ariel, was also kidnapped with his partner, Arbel Yehoud. Danielle and Emilia Alony were released from captivity as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Yair was kidnapped along with his brother, Eitan, who had come to visit him in Nir Oz. He works in construction and is heavily involved rennovations in Nir Oz, organizing parties and holiday activities and is responsible for the local kibbutz pub. Yair turned 46 years old on July 30, 2024 while he remained in Hamas captivity. He was released from captivity in the first phase of the 2025 hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 15, 2025 while his brother, Eitan, remains in captivity.

Omri Miran was abducted on camera from his neighbor's home in Nahal Oz. He was abducted together with Tsachi Idan. Tomer Arava, the neighbor's son, that went from house to house under the threats of the terrorists, also came to them: "He asked us to open the door and promised that he wouldn’t do anything to us and we wouldn’t do anything to him. He didn't plead, he didn't cry, he understood that this was his mission and that in order to stay alive he needed to do it," said Lishi, Omri's wife. "We opened the door and they pointed guns at us. They didn't agree to let us take Alma, the baby, who was still sleeping. We pleaded with them, but they didn't let us get up. Tomer decided to intervene. He asked the terrorists to allow him to bring little Alma who was left alone in the safe room. After the family's pleas, the terrorists allowed Omri to leave and he returned with the baby, crying in his arms. They were taken to the neighbor's house, where Hamas terrorists gathered the family with another family and with Natalie and Yehudit Raanan, who were also abducted and have since been released." On April 27, 2024, Hamas released a sign of life from Miran, in which he said "My dear family - I miss you all. My father, my brother, my sister, my beloved Lishai, my dear daughters Roni and Alma. This year we were not able to celebrate any holiday together because of this cursed war and I hope that at least the next holiday, Independence Day, we can all celebrate together. It's time to reach a deal that will get us out of here alive, safe and sound." On October 13, 2025, he was recovered to Israel in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Chen was abducted from her home in Kfar Aza along with her three children, 8-year-old Tal, 11-year-old Gal, and 17-year-old Agam. Her husband Nadav and daughter Yam, a soldier, were murdered. On Saturday morning, Chen and Nadav entered the shelter without their phones, while Yam handled all the communication with the outside world from within the family shelter and tried to reach out to anyone who could help. The last contact with the family was at 12:00. When the forces arrived, they found Yam and Nadav's bodies in the house. Chen and Nadav had met in 7th grade in Kfar Aza. She is a social worker, loves music, enjoys working out, and is an avid runner. In recent years, she decided to become a full-time mother to her four children. Chen and her three children were released as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26th, 2023.

Liat Beinin is a dual US-Israeli citizen who was living in Kibbutz Nir Oz when the attack by Hamas on October 7 occurred. She was taken hostage along with her husband, Aviv, who remains in captivity. Beinin’s father told CNN last month that Liat is a high school civics and history teacher and also a tour guide at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, in Jerusalem. Source: CNN

Yelena was abducted together with her son, Alexander (Sasha), and her mother, Irena Tati. Sasha's partner, Sapir, was also taken with them. Her husband, Vitaly Trufanov, was murdered. Yelena was seen in a video released by Hamas along with two other hostages, Danielle Alony and Rimon Kirsht (who were released from captivity). Yelena and Vitaly moved to Israel 25 years ago and lived in Kibbutz Nir Oz. Irena and Yelena were released as a gesture of Hamas for Putin, to release Israeli hostages with Russian citizenship. They were released on November 29, 2023. Sapir was released the day after, on November 30, 2023. Sasha was released in a deal 15 months later on February 15, 2025.

Eli was abducted from his home in Be'eri. His brother, Yossi, was also taken, along with his daughter's partner, Ofir Angel, from their home in Be'eri. Nirah, Yossi's wife, said: "At 11:00 I received a message from my sister-in-law, Leanne, that the terrorists were in her house. We tried to call her but she did not answer. On Sunday they informed us that she was killed." Eli's daughters, 13-year-old Yahel, and 16-year-old Noya, were also killed in the attack. Ofir was released as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal. His brother, Yossi, was murdered in Hamas captivity and Kibbutz Be'eri announced his death on January 16, 2024. Eli was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 8, 2025.

Sharon Avigdori was abducted along with her 12-year-old daughter, Noam, while visiting her brother in Be'eri. Her brother Avshalom Haran was murdered. His wife, Shoshan Haran was kidnapped along with her daughter, Adi, Adi's husband Tal, and their children Nave and Yahel. Shoshan's sister, Lilach Kipnis, and her husband, Eviatar Kipnis, were murdered. Eviatar's Filipino therapist, Paul Vincent Castelvi, was also murdered. The house and the shelter where 8 family members lived was set on fire by the terrorists. Sharon is a psychotherapist who works with autistic children through drama. Sharon and Noam were returned to Israel in the second phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25th, 2023.

Kaid was abducted from the Magen area. He is married and a father of 11. He was living with his family south of Rahat. He worked as a security guard at a packing house in Kibbutz Magen. Reports said his family believed he was kidnapped and taken to Gaza based on images shared by Hamas. On August 27, 2024, it was announced that he was rescued from Gaza alive and returned to Israel in a special operation by the IDF and Shin Bet.

Karina and her two daughters, Mika and Yuval, were abducted from their home's shelter in Nir Oz on Saturday morning. Her husband, Ronen, was armed and went to fight the terrorists that had infiltrated the kibbutz. Their eldest son, Tom, was not home that day and was saved. Ronen's brother said: "We spoke to them last when they were in the shelter and Ronen was armed. Someone from the kibbutz told us that they spoke to Karina during the abduction, and Ronen was not with them and had gone to fight. We know for sure that the three girls were together. We do not know where Ronen is and what his fate was - but at 10 in the morning, the terrorists posted pictures on Ronen's story and footage of them on a tank." Karina is a native of Argentina. She recovered from breast cancer just two months ago. She studied archeology, but worked as an accountant in the kibbutz. Karina, Mika, and Yuval were released on November 27, 2023. Four days after their release, the family was informed Ronen had been murdered on October 7, 2023. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 18, 2025.

Meirav lives in Rishon LeZion, but had been visiting her partner, Yair Yaakov, in Nir Oz when they were kidnapped from the safe room. Saturday morning, Meirav informed her family that Yair was securing the door of the safe room. The last contact was at 9:20, when she sent a voice message saying "Help me, call the police, Yair is wounded. They are inside the house." The next day, a Hamas video was released showing Meirav and Yair being taken out of the safe room. In another video, Meirav and Yair are seen being put into a car and Meirav is heard saying "Leave him alone, he's wounded". Yair's sons, Yagil (12) and Or (16) were also abducted to Gaza from another house in the Kibbutz. Meirav's daughter describes her as a dominant woman, "feisty," and her daughters said they were confident that she was taking care of the children in captivity. Yagil and Or were released on November 27, 2023, Meirav was released the next day on November 28, 2023. On February 15, 2024, Nir Oz kibbutz announced that Yair was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas in captivity. Yair's body was recovered on June 11, 2025.

Ofer was abducted to Gaza along with his children, Sahar aged 16 and Erez aged 12, from their home in Nir Oz. Ofer works as a carpenter and chef's assistant. His hobbies include off-road cycling and building and flying model airplanes, and he loves trips in Israel and abroad. He has two other older children. His ex-wife, Hadas Kalderon, is a leader in the struggle to bring them back. Ofer was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 1, 2025 along with Yarden Bibas.

Shiri was kidnapped together with her daughter Noga from their home in Kibbutz Be'eri. Her husband Ilan was murdered. Shiri and 17-year-old Noga were at home at the time of the attack. Ilan, as a member of the kibbutz emergency team, went out to fight. When the terrorists entered the house, Noga hid under the bed and reported to the family's WhatsApp group that her mother had been kidnapped. After Shiri was abducted, the terrorists set fire to the house, and Noga, following her older sister's advice, escaped through the shelter window and hid behind a bush. At 11:30, she sent a message that a terrorist was approaching and then communication had been lost. Shiri and Noga were released in the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Ilan was murdered during the attack and on August 28, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered to Israel.

Keren Munder was abducted along with her son, Ohad Munder-Zichri, who celebrated his 9th birthday in Hamas captivity. Ohad and his parents live in Kfar Saba. Keren and her son arrived to visit family in Nir Oz and were abducted from Keren's parents' home along with her parents, Avraham and Ruti Munder. Keren is an outstanding and award-winning teacher for physical education and children with special needs. She has played volleyball since she was a child and is a volleyball coach for children. She is partners with Avi Zichri who raises her son Ohad with her. Ohad is a student at The Democratic School in Kfar Saba, loves soccer, is a champion Rubik's cube solver, and raises birds with her father. Keren and Ohad were released from captivity, along with Keren's mother, Ruti Munder, as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Raaya Rotem and her daughter, Hila, were kidnapped from their home in Kibbutz Be'eri along with Hila's friend, Emily Hand, who had been sleeping over. Their families were only informed of their kidnapping three weeks later. At around 11:00, Hila's father, Rami, spoke with Raaya, who told him that they were hiding from the terrorists, after which the connection was cut and her phone was powered off. The family at one point came across a video of women being taken in a trailer to the Gaza Strip and identified Hila and her mother. Hila was released from captivity as part of the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Emily Hand was released with her. Raaya was released a few days later on November 29, 2023.

Ohad was abducted along with his wife Raz from their home in Be'eri. The couple was hid in a safe room. Initially, the militants thought the house was empty and left, but they later returned. The couple then turned to anyone who could help to call for assistance, one of the calls was to Israel's Channel 12 news. In her whispered conversations with Dani Kushmaro, she talked about the family's distress up until the kidnapping. In photos released, Ohad was seen wearing blue shorts, a black shirt and sunglasses, as he was being taken by terrorists into Gaza. Ohad is an accountant manager in Be'eri. He and Raz have three daughters. Raz was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 29, 2023. Ohad's 55th birthday fell on December 24, 2023 and he remained in captivity. Ohad was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 8, 2025.

Raz Ben-Ami was abducted in Be’eri with her husband, Ohad. The 57-year-old likes to dabble in arts and crafts and has filled her family’s home with pots and plants. Over the last 13 years, she has started “experiencing severe pain” and has been dealing with health issues, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. Source: CNN

Gabriela came with her daughter Mia from Jerusalem to visit her sister, Clara in Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak. The two of them came to take part in Clara's granddaughter's birthday celebration. Mia and Gabriela were abducted together with Clara, her partner Luis Norberto, and Gabriela and Clara's brother Fernando. The last time the family was in contact, Luis told his daughter that the terrorists were inside the house, breaking everything. The army only arrived at 4:00 and the family was already gone. In the house there are signs of gunfire, the closests were taken apart and their possessions were ransacked. Gabriela is a manager of a daycare center association for children and adults on the autistic spectrum. Gabriela and Mia were released as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023, along with her sister Clara. Her brother Fernando and Clara's partner Luis remained in captivity and were released in an undercover operation conducted by security forces on February 12, 2024.

Yehudit and her daughter Natalie from Evanston, a suburb outside of Chicago, traveled to Israel last month to visit relatives in the southern kibbutz of Nahal Oz. They were kidnapped from their family's house by Hamas gunmen and released two weeks later on October 21, 2023 for "humanitarian reasons" and not as part of any deal.

Fernando Marman was abducted from his sister Clara's house in Nir Yitzchak. He had arrived at the kibbutz to celebrate Clara's granddaughter's birthday on Friday and stayed over. He was kidnapped along with his sisters Clara Marman and Gabriela Leimberg, Clara's partner Luis Norberto Har, and Gabriela's 17-year-old daughter Mia. In the last contact with the family, Luis updated that the terrorists were in the house and breaking everything. In the house there are signs of gunfire, the closests were taken apart and their possessions were ransacked. The army only arrived at 4:00 and the family was already gone. His sisters Gabriela and Clara, along with Mia, were released on November 28, 2023. Fernando and Luis Norberto were rescued on February 12, 2024 from Rafah in the undercover operation conducted by IDF, Shin Bet, and Yamam after spending 129 days in Hamas captivity.

Noralin called her family in the Philippines a little before 7:00 in the morning and said she was scared, "She said she might not return." She had left on Friday evening with her partner, Gideon Babani, to the home of close friends in Kibbutz Nirim to celebrate 70 years for the agricultural community. Gideon was murdered and Noralin was kidnapped to Gaza. Exo, her younger brother, spoke of her last words before the connection was lost: "We just wanted to celebrate. I'm scared, maybe I won't come back home." Noralin is a dual national of the Philippines living in Yahud-Monoson where her hobbies include growing succulents and flowers in the garden of her building. Noralin was released as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023.

Aviva was abducted along with her husband Keith by Hamas terrorists from their home in Kfar Aza and taken to Gaza. The Siegels have four children and five grandchildren. They have been living in the kibbutz for 42 years. They both came to Israel from the United States out of their faith in the Jewish state, met in Israel, and fell in love. Aviva had worked as a kindergarten teacher in the kibbutz. Her children said they had talked to them Saturday morning. Their son heard the terrorists entering and screams but no gunshots. Their neighbor says he saw them being taken from their house by the terrorists. Later, a Military Intelligence officer reported that they seemed to have been kidnapped in Kieth's car. Aviva was released from captivity as part of the third phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 26, 2023. Her husband, Kieth, remains in captivity.

Clara was abducted from her home in Nir Yitzhak, along with several members of her family who had come to her house for her granddaughter's birthday on Friday. Clara is a well-known kindergarten teacher of Nir Yitzhak, and has taken care of the children of the kibbutz for the last 30 years. She immigrated from Argentina with the core of the Hashomer Hatzair movement. She is the mother of two girls and a grandmother. Clara was kidnapped along with her partner, Luis Norberto Har from Kibbutz Urim, her sister and neice Gabriela and Mia Leimberg, and her brother Fernando Marman. The last time the family had contact with them, Luis Norberto told them that the terrorists were in the house, breaking everything. In the house there are signs of gunfire, the closests were taken apart and their possessions were ransacked. The army only arrived at 4:00 and the family was already gone. Clara takes medicine for blood-thinning and treating diabetes. Clara was released as part of the fifth hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023, along with her sister Gabriela and niece Mia. Her partner Luis Norberto and brother Fernando remained in captivity and were released in an undercover operation conducted by security forces on February 12, 2024.

Keith and his wife Adrienne (Aviva) were abducted from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza by Hamas gunmen and taken to the Gaza Strip. The Siegels have four children and five grandchildren. They have been living in the kibbutz for 42 years. Both of them came to Israel from the United States out of faith in the Jewish State, they met in Israel and fell in love. Keith is a medical practitioner by profession. Their children said that they spoke with them on Saturday morning. Their son heard the terrorists entering, heard screams, but no gunshots. Later the family received a message from the army that Keith appeared to have been taken away in a car. Adrienne was released as part of the third hostage-prisoner exchange on November 26, 2023. On April 27, 2024, Hamas published a sign of life from Siegel. In the video, he addresses his family while bursting into tears: "I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It's important to me that you know that I'm fine, that I really hope you are too. See you later, and hopefully it will be soon." Keith's 65th birthday fell on May 8, 2024 while he remained in captivity. He was released in a hostage-prisoner exchange deal on February 1, 2025.

Dr. Shoshan Haran was abducted along with her daughter Adi Shoham, who had come to visit her for the holiday, as well as Adi's husband Tal and their two children, Yahel and Nave. Avshalom, Shoshan's husband, was murdered in the attack on the kibbutz. Her sister Lilach Kipnis and Lilach's husband Eviatar were also murdered, as well as Eviatar's Filipino caretaker, Paul Vincent Castelvi. In addition to Adi, Shoshan has two other children. Dr. Haran has a PhD in agronomy and is an expert in biotechnology and plant sciences and founded the "Fire Plant" organization, which helps Afirican farmers increase their yields. With her advanced cultivation methods, she has helped millions of people, including Muslims, out of poverty. Shoshan was released as part of the second hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25th, 2023, along with her daughter Adi and her grandchildren Nave and Yahel. Adi's husband, Tal, was released in a deal after 505 days in captivity on February 22, 2025.

Luis Norberto Har was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak along with his partner Clara Marman. His daughter said, "My father was living in Kibbutz Urim and he went to his girlfriend Clara, they were partners for 30 years. With them were Clara's family, her sister Gabriela Leimberg, her niece Mia, and her brother Fernando, and they all came to stay by Clara on Friday after they celebrated her granddaughter's birthday. My father wrote that they were in the safe room and they didn't know what was happening, but it seemed that there was a terrorist infiltration and there was a black cloud over their factory like a fire. At one point he wrote, 'They are in a house close to the neighbor, there are lots of Arabs screaming around the houses', and later he gave an update: 'They entered, there are noises in the house, hope for the best, kisses'. My sister tried to understand what was happening and to call for help but he didn't answer anyone anymore". Clara and her sister Gabriela, together with Mia, were released on November 28, 2023. Luis Norberto and Fernando were rescued on February 12, 2024 from Rafah in the undercover operation conducted by IDF, Shin Bet, and Yamam after spending 129 days in Hamas captivity.

The retired educator and Nir Oz resident is a mother of four and grandmother of 12. Her husband David (Sa’id) Moshe was killed in their home on October 7. Before her release, the 72-year-old was last seen on a motorbike, wedged between two Hamas terrorists near Gaza. Her niece, Einav Moshe Barda, told CNN: “She is a very strong woman. Look at the picture, she is sitting on the motorcycle with her back straight… and she just saw her husband being murdered.” Source: CNN

Irena was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, along with her daughter Yelena, her niece Alexander (Sasha), and her brother-in-law Sapir. Her husband Vitaly Trufanov was murdered. Irena and Yelena were released as a gesture from Hamas to Putin to release Israeli hostages with Russian citizenship. They were released on November 29, 2023. Sapir was released the next day on November 30, 2023. Sasha was released in a deal 15 months later on February 15, 2025.

Ada was kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz. On October 21st, she turned 75 years old while still in captivity of Hamas. She teaches Hebrew and Arabic. Ada grew up in Tel Aviv and and came with the core of the "Nahal" youth movement to the kibbutz, where she met her husband and established her home. Her husband passed away a year ago. She is a mother of three, a grandmother of six, and was supposed to fly to London for her birthday. Ada worked in a kibbutz for families in need. She was released as part of the prisoner exchange on November 28th, 2023.

A member of Kibbutz Nir Oz, Hannah Katzir's husband, Rami Katzir, 79, was killed in their home on October 7. “A mother of three and grandmother of six. Her son Elad, 47 years old, was also kidnapped,” said Nir Oz’s spokesperson. Hannah had been feared dead before she was spotted in the back seat of a Red Cross vehicle heading into Egypt on the day of her release. Islamic Jihad falsely announced on November 21 that she had died, without offering proof. Source: CNN

Ophelia was abducted from Nir Oz. She sent a voice message to her family informing them that she was in a closed shelter and has not been heard from since. She immigrated from Argentina in 1985 and is the mother of three and grandmother of nine. She had been a teacher and principal at Jewish schools in Argentina for 20 years and afterwards taught in the kibbutz. Her husband was supposed to be released from the hospital but remained hospitalized due to an infection and thus survived. Ophelia was released as part of the fifth hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023.

Margalit Moses, 77, was abducted from her home in Nir Oz. She is a cancer survivor who has diabetes and fibromyalgia, and was taken without her medications. She always believed in coexistence and saw Nir Oz as her home even during tough times. She volunteered in knitting wool hats for infants in the Tel Hashomer neonatal intensive care unit. Margalit's husband Gadi Moses was also taken captive in the attack. Margalit was released from captivity in the first hostage-prisoner exchange on November 24, 2023.

Ruth (Ruti) is a native of Be'er Ya'akov. She arrived at Kibbutz Nir Oz following her sister and became one of its founders. She is a retired hairdresser and seamstress and was abducted along with her husband Avraham, daughter Keren, and beloved grandson, Ohad, who celebrated his 9th birthday in captivity. Her son Roi was killed in the attack. Ruti Munder was released from captivity, along with her daughter Keren and grandson Ohad Munder-Zichri as part of the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. Her husband, Avraham Munder, remained in captivity and on August 20, 2023, it was announced that he was murdered and his body was recovered to Israel from a tunnel in Khan Younis in a military operation.

Tamar ("Tami") was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with her husband Yoram. They are parents to three children and grandparents to seven. Yoram worked at the Nirlat factory and, in recent years, in the kibbutz's garage. He is an excellent cook, a history enthusiast, a member of the kibbutz parliament, and involved in Nir Oz's vineyard. Tami arrived at the kibbutz in the 70s and worked over the years in the commune, education, and the general store. She is a bookworm and a fan of Viva shows and was released in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023. Her husband Yoram remained in Hamas captivity. On June 3, 2024, the family was informed that Yoram was murdered in captivity and on August 20, 2024, his body was returned to Israel in a special rescue operation.

Hanna Peri, who lives in Kibbutz Nirim, immigrated to Israel from South Africa in the 1960s. She worked in a grocery store and is a mother of three – one of whom was murdered on October 7 and another kidnapped. “She has diabetes, and suffers severe vision loss in one of her eyes,” said the Hostages and Missing Families Forum in a statement. Source: CNN

Nurit was abducted from Nir Oz along with her husband Amiram. She was released after 17 days of captivity along with Yocheved Lifschitz for "humanitarian reasons" and not as part of a deal.

Gadi Moses, a resident of Nir Oz, was filmed by Hamas when he was abducted by terrorists from his home in the kibbutz. His wife, Efrat Katz, was killed in the attack. Efrat's daughter Doron and two young granddaughters Aviv and Raz, who were at their house for Shabbat, were also kidnapped and later released in the first phase of the prisoner exchange on November 24, 2023. Gadi remained in captivity. Gadi's half-brother, Ravid Katz, was killed on October 7th and his body was abducted by Hamas. Gadi is an agronomist and farmer who loves nature. Over the years, he has guided and supported third world countries through his extensive agricultural knowledge. After retiring, he established a community vegetable garden. As a wine enthusiast, he grew grapes as a hobby. His family describes him as a warm, loving, and affectionate family-oriented man. His beloved father and grandfather invested in and supported him. He was a believer in coexistence. Gadi was abducted without his glasses or his medications. Gadi's ex-wife, Margalit Moses, was also abducted from Nir Oz and returned as part of the first phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. Gadi's 80th birthday fell on March 12, 2024, while he remained in captivity. On January 30, 2025, he was released as part of the 2025 hostage-prisoner exchange deal.

Ditza Heiman, 84, is another of the founders of Nir Oz. She is described by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum as a “family woman, a beloved and loving grandmother” who is “known for her chicken soup, cholent and fruit cakes.” Source: CNN

Eighty-four-year-old Elma Avraham was taken from her Kibbutz Nahal Oz home. She was among the Israeli hostages freed from Gaza on November 26, however, her health had deteriorated during captivity. She was transferred to Soroka Medical Center via helicopter where her condition had improved slightly, doctors said. Source: CNN

Yafa was abducted from her home in Nir Oz. Recordings of her kidnapping on a golf cart with terrorists was circulated worldwide. Yafa is a mother of three children: Moshe, Vered, and Erez, and a grandmother to eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. One of her grandchildren, Tamir Adar, aged 38, was also kidnapped with her in Gaza. On January 5, 2024, it was announced by Kibbutz Nir Oz that Tamir was murdered in the attack. Tamir was a father to two children - 3-year-old Neta and 7-year-old Assaf. "Each family member saw the video separately on the morning of October 7, but was afraid to tell or show others," said her granddaughter Uriyan. "We understood that this is our reality. She is kidnapped, and now it's time to fight to get her back." Yafa Adar was released from captivity in the first round of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023.

Yocheved Lifshitz, who was abducted from Nir Oz with her husband Oded, was released after 17 days of captivity without a deal being made. Upon her release, she stated, “I have gone through hell, they beat me.” Gadi Amichai, Yocheved's nephew, told the press this morning about what Yocheved said when she returned to the hospital with her family. “I have not heard all the details yet, but I know she said they took her on a motorcycle. One terrorist was in front and one was behind. She knows she was first taken to Abasan in Gaza, the village near Nir Oz and after that she doesn’t know where she was taken.”

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 24, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 25, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 29, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 26, 2023

Thai farmer who worked in the Gaza Envelope. Released not as part of a deal on November 26, 2023

Wichian Temthon was abducted on October 7 from his apartment in Kibbutz Kfar Aza by Hamas terrorists and held captive for 51 days. "The terrorists dragged me by force, beat me with weapons, kicked me, and took me to the tunnel along with other Israeli hostages. The first couple weeks, I suffered from migraines and I looked like a lunatic. I was talking to myself and paced back and forth until Hamas terrorists told me to stop." Temthon arrived in Israel only two weeks before the attack. He was released not as part of a deal on November 26, 2023.

Baby Kfir was abducted when he was only nine months old along with his mother Shiri and his brother Ariel (4) from their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz. The video of terrified Shiri embracing her two children in a blanket has become one of the symbols of the war and its horrors. Kfir's father, Yarden, was seen in another video being dragged away by Hamas terrorists to the Gaza Strip. Hamas terrorists recorded a video of the moment they broke into the Bibas family home. They broke open the door with a screwdriver. Yarden texted his sister, "They broke into our house, it feels like the end. I'm scared, I've got pistols, but they have machine guns". Kfir's grandparents, Shiri's parents Yosi and Margit Silverman, were killed. On February 20, 2025, Kfir's body was returned to Israel along with his brother Ariel's as part of an exchange deal. According to assessments, Kfir and Ariel were murdered brutally by their captors in November 2023. The body of their mother, Shiri, was returned the next day. She was murdered with them.

Ariel was abducted with his mother Shiri and brother, Kfir, who was only nine months old when taken, from their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz. The video of terrified Shiri wrapping her two children in a blanket has become one of the symbols of the war and its horrors. Ariel's father, Yarden, was seen in another video being dragged away by Hamas terrorists to the Gaza Strip. Hamas terrorists recorded a video of the moment they broke into the Bibas family home. They broke open the door with a screwdriver. Yarden texted his sister, "They broke into our house, it feels like the end. I'm scared, I've got pistols, but they have machine guns". Ariel's grandparents, Shiri's parents Yosi and Margit Silverman, were killed. Ariel's family says he is a truly joyful kid who loves Batman and trucks, and that his energy and infectious smile illuminates any room. On February 20, 2025, Ariel's body was returned to Israel along with his baby brother Kfir's as part of an exchange deal. According to assessments, Kfir and Ariel were murdered brutally by their captors in November 2023. The body of their mother, Shiri, was returned the next day. She was murdered with them.

Tamir was kidnapped from a base in the Gaza Envelope, where he served as an education officer. Among his personal belongings was a small handwritten note with his morals: "To help many people, to create a close social circle, and not to do harm". Tamir is seen in the video when he was kidnapped to the Gaza Strip on his feet and was estimated to have been killed by IDF bombing at the beginning of the war. Throughout the entire period of captivity, no sign of life was received from him and there was a fear he had been killed. His body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 14, 2025.

Itay was murdered on October 7 and was abducted from a Nahal Oz military base where he was stationed with friends in his Armored Corps team. His family spoke with him on that Saturday morning and haven't heard from him since. His brother was about to have his Bar Mitzvah a few days after the kidnapping - he commemorated it without him. Itay is the middle of three brothers. He was a sports enthusiast who loved soccer, rock climbing, and traveling around the country. On March 12, 2024, the IDF permitted the publication that Itay was killed. His body was returned to Israel on October 30, 2025 as part of the deal to end the war. With the return of his body, there were no more hostages left from the kibbutz that suffered the hardest blow on October 7 - Nir Oz.

Kiril Brodski of Ramat Gan, Infantry Brigade commander, was killed in battle on October 7th, his body was abducted to Gaza by Hamas terrorists. His body was recovered to Israel in a special operation by the IDF on July 24, 2024.

Nik Beizer served as a driver in the Gaza District Coordination and Liaison. His mother recounts that she woke up on a Saturday morning at 6:30 to the sound of an alert from the area where Nik was stationed. "I called him, and when he answered, I heard lots of explosions in the background, noise, and red alert sirens. He told me that he and his friends had awakened from a missile attack and some missiles had fallen nearby. Nik and his friends entered the safe room. At this point, they were confident that it was still just missiles." Later, his mother saw a video in which he is seen being adbudcted along with two of his friends towards the Gaza Strip. On December 15, 2023, it was reported that Nik's body was recovered from Gaza by the IDF forces. Nik was murdered in captivity by Hamas.

Noa Marciano was abducted from a military outpost along Nahal Oz on October 7th and was killed by Hamas in captivity. Her body was returned to Israel on November 16th in an operation conducted by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) and the IDF in the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

Oz was a boy who loved life. Always laughing and smiling, he loved everyone and was a true friend. He was a musician and guitarist who believed the power of music could change the world. Oz has a twin sister and parents living in Kfar Saba. On February 25, 2024, it was released for publication that Oz, an Armored Corps soldier, fell in battle on October 7. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 2, 2025.

Shaked Dahan of Afula, 77th Battalion, 7th Armored Brigade, was killed in battle on October 7. His body was abducted to Gaza.

Shay Levinson was abducted from the Nahal Oz area from the tank he fought in. Shay served in the 77th Battalion in the "Sa'ar MiGolan" brigade. On the morning of October 7th, terrorists detonated the tank he was stationed in, along with his team, in the border region. Two of his team members were killed alongside him. He graduated high school with a focus on Arabic studies and believed in finding a bridge between the nations. Shay was a top volleyball player for a team in Eilabun, an Arab village near his hometown. For years, he was the only Jewish player on the team but later others joined. In the words of Shay's friends: "Shay had a giant heart and just wanted to do good in the world and excel in everything he touched." A few weeks ago, the management of the Eilabun volleyball team issued a plea to bring him back from captivity, stating about him, "Shay is a man of peace who tried in every way to promote coexistence with the Arab society." "You can't miss him; he's a 1.92-meter tall beacon of light who carried himself with the spirit of a young and ambitious, outstanding athlete and peace activist. In the volleyball team he played for, there's now a missing piece. A missing piece in the form of a sweet young man who worked for coexistence, an optimistic person with a big heart." On January 21, 2024, the IDF announced that, based on findings, Shay was declared a fallen soldier. He fell in battle on October 7th, and his body was abducted to Gaza. His body was recovered in an IDF operation on June 22, 2025.

Ron Scherman served as an officer in the Gaza District Coordination and Liaison. He held both Argentine and Israeli citizenship. When the shooting began, he quickly ran to the shelter in his undershirt and sandals. On Saturday at 6:30, he sent WhatsApp messages to his parents, informing them that this time the noise was louder than usual. The last words he wrote to his parents upon hearing the terrorists were, "I love you. It's over." In the afternoon, he appeared alive in a video released by Hamas. His mother, Maayan, recounted in an interview, "He called me at 6:30 in the morning. He sent a WhatsApp message and said there was a very heavy missile attack. It has happened before, so we weren't surprised. At first, I wasn't even nervous." Ron often suffered from severe asthma attacks. "I imagine him now in the Hamas cells without his inhaler. We are trying to contact the Red Cross. They are doing their best, but there is still no response," his mother said in the interview. On December 15, 2023, his parents received a message that Ron was murdered in Hamas captivity, and his body was returned to Israel by the IDF and Shin Bet.

Tomer Ahimas, an intelligence officer in the military, was abducted by Hamas after he was killed in the battle on October 7th, 2023. His body was recovered to Israel in a special operation by the IDF on July 24, 2024.

Joshua was an agriculture student from Tanzania who was abducted by Hamas. Joshua had an internship at Nahal Oz's dairy farm which was organised by his college in central Tanzania, the Ministry of Agriculture Training Institute - Katrin. On December 13, 2023, his father was informed that his son was murdered and his body was held by Hamas in Gaza. Joshua had come to Israel from Tanzania only two weeks before the sudden attack. His body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war on November 5, 2025.

Yonatan Mordechai Samerano was kidnapped from the music festival in Re'im. He had come with two friends, Bnaiahu Biton and Maor Graziani, who were both murdered. The last location his phone was tracked to was on Saturday morning in Kibbutz Be'eri, where he seemingly was seeking out a shelter. According to his parents, he met up at some points with with the sound man of The Block in recent years, Matan Lior, who was also murdered. On December 4, 2023, Yonatan's family was given the harsh news that he was murdered. On June 22, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered in special operation.

Omer Neutra was abducted near Nir Oz. He grew up in New York before moving to Israel and settling in Kibbutz Afikim. There are videos online distributed by Hamas which show his abduction. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 2, 2025.

Daniel Perez was captured by Hamas terrorists near Kibbutz Nahal Oz during the attack on October 7. Daniel immigrated to Israel with his family from South Africa when he was 13, two months after his Bar Mitzvah. He was very sociable and loved extreme sports. His brother, Yonatan Perez, was shot in the leg during the battle. Ten days later, the Perez family decided to go ahead with the long-planned wedding of Yonatan and his fiance, Galya Landau. The decision to go ahead with his wedding was incredibly hard for Yonatan but the family together felt it was the right thing to do under the circumstances. Daniel's absence was deeply felt during the wedding ceremony. "When the rabbi mentioned him, it was very, very hard and I broke down," said his father. "I had my son holding me up, instead of me holding him up." On March 17, 2024, the IDF announced that the Chief Military Rabbi determined his death after an examination of all findings and based on reliable sources. His body was returned to Israel in the deal to end the war on October 13, 2025.

Hamza was abducted along with his father Youssef and two siblings, Bilal and Aisha, from Kibbutz Holit. Youssef had worked the last 19 years in a dairy farm in Kibbutz Holit, together with his three children. In Hamas channels, pictures of Hamza and Bilal were seen with an armed Hamas terrorist standing over them. They also took pictures of Youssef and Aisha. Following the photos, it is assumed that they were abducted. Aisha and Bilal were released on November 30th, 2023. Hamza and Youssef remained in Hamas captivity. They were both murdered in captivity and their bodies were recovered to Israel on January 8, 2025.

Samer, from Bedouin town of Hura, was working in a hen house in Nir Am. He called his father the morning of October 7 when he heard shooting near his location. Immediately afterwards, he reported that the cameras had shut off and the connection was lost. Based on reports from Gaza, the family understood he was kidnapped. Samer was the son of Fouad and Lilah and had two brothers and four sisters. In the morning of December 15, 2023, Samer was shot by IDF troops by mistake in Shejaiya when they were mistakenly thought to be a threat. Yotam Haim, Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, and Alon Shamriz appeared to have escaped their kidnappers due to the explosions in the area.

Bipin is a Nepali citizen. He arrived at Kibbutz Alumim to intern in agriculture three weeks before he was abducted to Gaza. He hid in a shelter with 16 other students, at least ten of whom were killed at the scene. On October 7, Bipin was seen in footage being forcibly abducted by Hamas terrorists, along with 3 Thai citizens to the Al-Shifa Hospital. On October 13, 2025, his body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war. An autopsy revealed that he was killed in the first few months of the war.

Hersh was abducted from the Re'im music festival while hiding in a shelter from Hamas terrorists. A grenade blew off Hersh’s left arm, leaving a bloody bone sticking out. A video shows Hersh being dragged by several Hamas fighters into a truck at gunpoint. He looked stunned and pale, but managed to climb into the truck with his remaining arm. When his parents, who are Sabbath-observant, turned on their phone, they found two messages from him: "I love you" and then "I'm sorry". They tried to call him but he didn't answer. He had gone to the festival with a close friend, Aner Shapiro, who was killed. Witnesses said that Hersh was in the shelter when the terrorists started shooting and throwing grenades. The Hamas terrorists said: "Whoever is able, stand up on your feet." Hersh stood up and along with five other young people was lifted onto a truck. Witnesses said that Hersh and Aner saved the lives of those in the shelter when they pushed them out of the way of the grenades. Hersh came to Israel with his family when he was 7 years old and he has two younger sisters. He had saved money for a big trip he had planned to take in December. On April 24, 2024, Hamas published a video in which a sign of life is seen from Hersh. In the video, he turns to his family members and says: "Mom, Dad, Libby and Orly, I love you very much and miss you very much. I think of you every day that I'm here. I know that you are doing everything so that I can return home as soon as possible." On August 31, 2024, his family was informed that he was murdered in Hamas captivity and his body was brought back to Israel by the IDF.

Shani Louk was abducted from the music festival in Re'im and appeared in a video released by Hamas on October 7th, lying unconscious and appearing injured on a truck moving through Gaza. Despite this, assessments were made that she was alive and hospitalized in the Gaza Strip. After a few weeks, authorities informed her family that Louk was confirmed to have been murdered on the basis of findings in Israeli territory which were identified as being parts of her through genetic testing. On May 17, 2024, her body was recovered as part of actions by IDF forces and the Shin Bet.

Eden was at the music festival in Re'im where she and her friends came in multiple vehicles. Two of the friends who were in the car with her were killed. Eden hid for almost four hours from the terrorists and waited to be rescued, during which time she spoke with her two older sisters. She managed to say, "Shani, they got me" and then the call was disconnected. Eden was a resident of Kfar Shalem in Tel Aviv and a sports enthusiast who loved the sea. On August 31, 2024, her family was informed that she was murdered in Hamas captivity and her body was brought back to Israel by the IDF.

Ran Gvili, a fighter in the Negev Yasam unit in the southern police district, was kidnapped after being killed in battle in Kibbutz Alumim. In the morning of the attack, he was waiting for medical treatment at a hospital near Kibbutz Alumim. When he heard of the situation, he left to help. At 10:50 he contacted his friends on WhatsApp and informed them that he was shot twice in the foot. Since then, he has gone missing. On January 31, 2024, it was revealed that Ran was killed in battle on October 7 and he is classified as a fallen soldier kidnapped in the Gaza Strip. The police paid tribute to him: "He fought with strength and vigor on the front lines against the enemy" On January 26, 2026, the IDF announced that Ran's body was located and recovered for burial in Israel. Ran Gvili was the last hostage remaining in Gaza.

Sahar was enrolled at Ben Gurion University and was scheduled to start studying electrical engineering this year but will no longer be able to. The week after October 7th, he planned to go to Be'er Sheva to pick out an apartment. A month before the tragic weekend, he returned from a trip to South America and was also able to hike parts of the Israel trail. He was an excellent chess player and a lover of anime and science fiction. He was sharp and realistic, and his family says he had a nice, ridiculous sense of humor. He is the second of four siblings to his parents Tami and Roni. On October 7th, he was at his mother's house along with his brother Idan. In the early hours of the morning, grenades were thrown into the house, and Idan was injured from shrapnel. The whole time, Sahar treated and took care of Idan. They entered the safe room and tried to lock it but were unsuccessful so they blocked the door with a closet. The terrorists ignited the house, and despite the awareness of the danger outside, Sahar and Idan decided to jump outside, Sahar was still able to tell his mother, "to die in the fire is more painful." Apparently Idan jumped first, and Sahar stayed to look for Idan's inhaler. Communication with them was lost at about 12:00pm. A few days later, the family was informed of a certain identification of the body of Idan who turned out to have been shot in the head. About three weeks after October 7th, the family was informed he was kidnapped. Sahar's grandmother, Geula Bachar, was murdered in the kibbutz. Sahar was murdered during a failed rescue mission on December 7th and Kibbutz Be'eri announced his murder two days later. His body was returned to Israel on October 30, 2025 as part of the deal to end the war.

Ori was abducted from the festival in Re'im. The last contact with him was at 8:34 when his friend called him and he told her he was fleeing "like a psycopath" and they would talk later. Since then his whereabouts have been unknown. Reports heard by the family say that Ori tried to escape in his car, but he got out of the car to try and help other people in need. He managed to help rescue people to a safe place, but then he disappeared. Ori was supposed to start his bachelor's degree and get married to his girlfriend, Liel. January 31, 2024 marked his 25th birthday while he remained in captivity. On August 31, 2024, his family was informed that he was murdered in Hamas captivity and his body was brought back to Israel by the IDF.

Almog was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. Almog, who loves nature and people, was working in lighting and sound before finishing his studies. He had been going to festivals for the past three and a half years with his wife, Shachar Gindi, who was murdered. On August 31, 2024, his family was informed that he was murdered in Hamas captivity and his body was brought back to Israel by the IDF.

Alon was abducted from Kfar Aza. Three weeks after the attack, his family was informed he was kidnapped. He was accepted to study computer engineering at Sapir College. He loved basketball and played on the Sha'ar Hanegev team. Alon was abducted from his room in the "young generation" neighborhood in Kfar Aza during the attack. His family recounts that on the morning of October 7th, they received a sign of life from Alon around 9:58. In a WhatsApp exchange between him and his brother Yonatan, he wrote that terrorists were entering their home. At 10:02, they received his last sign of life. "He sent us a love heart, and from that moment, we lost contact with him." A week later, the family was shown a WhatsApp message from a neighbor of Alon, Aviad, who wrote to his sister that Alon had been abducted. Aviad himself was murdered. On December 15, 2023, Alon, while kidnapped in Sajaya was misidentified by the IDF as a threat which led to his unfortunate demise. Yotam Haim, Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, and Alon Shamriz appeared to have escaped their kidnappers due to the explosions in the area.

Guy started to leave the music festival in Re'im with ten friends when the rocket fire began. In the footage of the terrorists, they are seen arriving at Guy's Jeep and killing everyone inside. At the end of the clip, someone is seen escaping - presumably Guy. Guy called Magen David Adom and reported that there were terrorists and that he was hiding behind a tree, wounded and bleeding, and asked them to send a helicopter. The Magen David Adom operator got his father, Michel, on the line at his request. Guy said to him, "Dad, I just wanted to tell you that I love you." Michel got into the car and drove to the area, searching for Guy among the bodies. Two days later, the Jeep was found in the area where it was burned and full of bloodstains. Army representatives told his father that they had found evidence that Guy was taken into Gaza. Guy was a musician, a guitarist, a sound engineer with Matti Caspi, Shalom Hanoch, and HaYehudim. His family was informed on November 30th that he had been murdered. Guy's body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 13, 2025. An autopsy on his body revealed that he did indeed die from his wounds after not receiving adequate medical treatment.

Elia was abducted from the music festival in Re'im along with his friend Mia (who was returned to Israel in a hostage deal). He works as a family event organizer. Elia and Mia were separated from their friend Shira when the rocket fire began. Mia contacted one of the organizers to come and save them as they were being shot at. On December 15, 2023, it was announced that IDF soldiers rescued Elia's body from the Gaza Strip.

Inbar was kidnapped from the festival in Re'im and was seen in a video being taken by the terrorists while unconscious into Gaza. Inbar was at the festival with friends and was a festival "helper" who volunteered to help festivalgoers in need. She ran away with two Israelis, Priel Bitton and Rom Dahari, and two terrorists chased them for 3 hours. Only at about 1pm, the terrorists managed to catch up. One of them grabbed hold of Inbar. A motorcycle that came out of Kibbutz Be'eri with armed terrorists murdered and kidnapped Inbar to Gaza. Inbar was a visual communications student and the partner of Alon. The two studied together at WIZO Haifa, and she was about to start her fourth year. She was a graffiti artist in Israel and around the world with a well recognized signature of her nickname "Pink." Since the abduction, graffiti artists in Israel and around the world have set out on the streets and sprayed "Free Pink". On December 15, her family was informed that Inbar was murdered by Hamas and her body remained in captivity. On October 15, 2025, her body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war.

Ofir was abducted from the festival in Re'im where he was with his partner, Shoval, who survived the attack. Ofir was abducted while seemingly in severe condition. He had traveled to celebrate his 27th birthday. His partner said, "When the missile fire began, we saw a flood of people running, so we got out of the car. It was me with Ofir and another friend. Ofir encouraged us, protected us, and made sure we were safe. We started walking towards Moshav Patish, and then vehicles came and everyone ran to them. Ofir tried to enter the luggage compartment but couldn't. Later we realized that Ben Shimoni had returned twice to rescue the injured. When Romi Gonen spoke with her mother, he shouted his phone number and asked them to tell me what was happening". Ofir was a student of electrical engineering at Ariel University, a fan of Maccabi Haifa, and had been raising his beloved dog Tai for 12 years. On November 30th, his family was informed that he was murdered on October 7th and his body was abducted. His body was recovered by the IDF forces from the heart of Gaza with information received from the Shin Bet.

Amit was kidnapped from the music festival in Re'im. She tried to flee when the terrorists arrived and she was shot in the hand. That Saturday morning, Amit called her brother Shimon, who had raised her almost as his own daughter. "She told me 'Shimon, there are kidnappers around me, I'm hiding under a car'," he recalled. "Then she was spotted by the terrorists and they shot at her. She screamed to me on the phone that she was shot in the hand and that she loves us". On May 17, 2024, in a special operation of the IDF and Shin Bet, her body recovered from Gaza and it was made public that she was murdered on October 7.

Eden was kidnapped in unknown condition from the music festival in Re'im. She went to the festival with her partner Ofek Kimhi and her friend Livnat Elgazi. At six in the morning, they felt exhausted and began to head home. In the Miflasim area, they encountered terrorists who fired at the car. Eden lost consciousness, Ofek was injured, and Livnat tried to call an ambulance but after a few minutes, they realized they needed to flee because the terrorists were approaching. They left Eden in the car and fled. Two hours later, Ofek was killed, Livnat was injured but managed to escape and survive. It is assumed Eden's car was taken into Gaza along with her. Eden's body was brought back to Israel on December 7th in a special operation by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) and the IDF.

Yotam Haim was abducted from his home in Kfar Aza. On the morning of Saturday, October 7th, he informed his mother, Iris, that terrorists had entered their home and recorded the entire event. At some point, they could no longer communicate by phone due to a loss of communication, so he updated his family through WhatsApp messages. Gunshots were fired inside the house, a fire broke out, and the house was set ablaze. He wrote to his family, "The terrorists are inside the house, and they ignited the gas. 'I'm choking. I'm burning. They are shooting at me through the door of the safe room. Someone come and save me, I'm choking.'" He further wrote, "If I don't survive this, know that I love you." Yotam worked at a restaurant in Sderot, and his family lived in Sde Nitzan. He played drums in the heavy rock band "Persephore." On December 15, 2023, Alon, while kidnapped in Sajaya was misidentified by the IDF as a threat which led to his unfortunate demise. Yotam Haim, Samer Fouad Al-Talalka, and Alon Shamriz appeared to have escaped their kidnappers due to the explosions in the area.

Idan Shtivi, a photography enthusiast in his second year studying sustainability and governance at Reichman University, had just arrived in the area of the music festival in Re'im when the terrorist attack started. When Shtivi and his friends noticed the rocket fire in the area, they decided to drive towards the center. However, on Route 242 they were attacked by Hamas terrorists. Shtivi, who was the driver, even tried to escape the murderous gunfire. Shtivi's friends in the car were killed. Shtivi himself was considered missing and at the beginning of January 2024, his family was officially informed there was evidence he had been kidnapped. "My brother, Idan, always knew how to act in situations, even in terrifying events," said his sister Hila, "It is very difficult for us, it's as if a part of our bodies are missing." On October 7, 2024, a year after the massacre, it was announced that Idan was murdered on the day of the attack. On August 30, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered to Israel.

Oron Shaul was killed on July 20th, 2014 during Operation Protective Edge. The armored vehicle he was in was hit by an anti-tank missile in Shejaiya, Gaza. Six other soldiers in the vehicle were killed. Oron Shaul's body was not found and he was initially declared missing. Hamas later claimed to have captured a soldier named Oron Shaul and showed a photo of his ID card as evidence. On July 25th, the IDF confirmed that Oron had been killed in the attack. He is recognized as a fallen IDF soldier whose place of burial is unknown. Since his abduction, Oron's family has been fighting for his return. His father, Hertzel Shaul, passed away two years after Oron's capture. His mother, Zahava, has continued the fight and recently revealed that she is suffering from cancer while still hoping to bring Oron home. During the 2014 war, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that the government was working to return all captives, including Hadar Goldin, Oron Shaul, and the two other Israeli citzens taken into Gaza before the start of the war.

Orion was kidnapped from the music festival in Re'im. He came to Israel as a tourist at the end of September and visited more than once a year. He is a music producer and had come this time to attend the Nova festival. His parents received a message from the kidnappers in Arabic saying he was abducted to Gaza and they were going to use him for political motives. His father Serjio lives in Mexico and his mother Pascal lives in France. On May 24, 2024, the IDF announced that Orion was murdered on October 7 and kidnapped to the Gaza Strip. His body was recovered in a special operation by the IDF and the Shin Bet.

Sonthaya was kidnapped from Kibbutz Be'eri. He was murdered while working in the plantations near the kibbutz. On May 16, 2024, the IDF spokesman announced that his family had been informed that he was murdered on October 7. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 18, 2025.

Shiri was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz with her two young children - Ariel (4) and baby Kfir who was only nine months old when kidnapped. The video of terrified Shiri embracing her two children in a blanket and being dragged away by Hamas terrorists became one of the symbols of the war and horrors. Her husband Yarden, seen in another video being dragged away by terrorists, was also taken hostage. Hamas terrorists recorded a video of the moment they broke into the Bibas family home. They broke open the door with a screwdriver. Yarden texted his sister, "They broke into our house, it feels like the end. I'm scared, I've got pistols, but they have machine guns". Shiri's parents, Yosi and Margit Silverman, were killed. Shiri worked in the kibbutz's accounting department and had previously cared for the kibbutz children. On February 20, 2025, the bodies of Kfir and Ariel were returned to Israel as part of an exchange deal. The body Hamas claimed to be of Shiri was not a match. The next day, Hamas returned her body and it was finally identified on February 22, 2025. Shiri was murdered in captivity along with her sons.

Alex was working as a manager at the music festival in Re'im when he was abducted. He managed to stay in contact with his family until 9:00 in the morning and updated them on the situation. He told his wife Michal he was in the forest and not to worry and then the connection was cut. From the testimonies heard, it was determined that Alex rescued people and fled with five other people into the forest. They escaped but Alex disappeared. After 18 days of being declared missing, he was determined to have been taken hostage. Alex is the father of Tom, two years old, and his wife was at the time in her sixth month of pregnancy. He had a medical issue with his leg and he needed medical treatment. His 33rd birthday fell on February 18, 2024, and his second son was born on March 1, 2024 whom he never got to meet. On August 31, 2024, his family was informed that he was murdered in Hamas captivity and his body was recovered to Israel by the IDF.

Hadar was a Sergeant in the Givati Brigade who fell in battle in Rafah during Operation Protective Edge on August 1, 2014. A 72-hour ceasefire was agreed upon which was quickly broken by Hamas. A force under the command of Colonel Benaya Sarel, including Sergeant Goldin and a small number of soldiers, continued to search for tunnels in the Rafah area. At 9:05, terrorists emerged from a tunnel and attacked the force. They killed Colonel Sarel, Sergeant Liel Gidoni, and Sergeant Goldin. Sergeant Goldin was abducted into the terror tunnel. Shortly afterwards, a "Hannibal Directive" was activated, which involved a heavy artillery barrage in the area in order to prevent the abductors from escaping. Lieutenant Itay Pund and Major Matan Choresh led a pursuit of the terrorists inside the tunnel. During the pursuit, items were found that later allowed to determine Goldin's fate. Hadar grew up in Kfar Saba. He was 23 years old and was engaged to Edna Sarusi. He left behind his parents, twin brother, another brother, and sister. His family had been fighting for his return ever since. Hadar was held by Hamas for over 11 years. During the Operation Protective Edge, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that the government was working to return all captives, including Hadar, soldier Oron Shaul, and the two additional Israeli citzens taken into Gaza before the start of the war. Hadar's body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war on November 9, 2025.

Oren Goldin was abducted from Nir Yitzhak in unknown condition on October 7. After just over a month, his family was informed that he had been murdered and his body was held by Hamas. He left behind his wife Oshrit and two-year-old twins, Aviv and Ilay. He ran the greenhouse in the kibbutz. On July 24, 2024, his body was recovered from the Khan Younis area in a special military operation.

Yagev Buchshtab and his wife, Rimon, were kidnapped from their home in Nirim. The last contact with them was at 9am. Esther, Yagev's mother, is a member of Nirim's emergency team: "I spoke with Yagev, he said there were terrorists behind his house. At this stage I already knew that the terrorists had murdered a father and daughter in their neighborhood, but I held back from telling him. Later on, when they started the first assessment of the kibbutz, they found nothing in their home." Yagev studied street theater and juggling. He was an autodidact, well-informed, and inquisitive. He read many books, loved music, played and built musical instruments, and had played in several bands. Yagev and Rimon's love developed slowly over the years, and then suddenly, after 17 years of friendship, it hit them, and they saw how happy they were together. They got married in a small wedding during Corona. Rimon was released in the hostage deal on November 28, 2023. Yagev turned 35 on January 23, 2024 while in captivity. On July 22, 2024, Kibbutz Nirim announced he was murdered in Hamas captivity and on August 20, the IDF announced that his body was recovered from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and brought back to Israel.

Uriel was abducted from the music festival in Re'im. He was at the festival with a friend who spoke with his wife at 6:30. The friend said they were on their way out and she heard him say "Uriel, go, go, they're shooting at us," which was the last communication with him. The friend was found shot dead near the car in the Miflasim area. Uriel was seen in a Hamas video, lying on the ground with his face to the side and a hoodie covering his face. There are more videos from the scene that show the car with bodies, but he was not found there and there was no blood where he had been lying. After three weeks, the family received confirmation that he had been abducted. On March 26, 2024, his family received the news that he was murdered and his body remained held captive by Hamas. He left behind his wife, Racheli, two children, his parents Naomi and Amir, and his three brothers. Uriel's family said that "Uriel was a happy man, loved by all, loved by everyone who was near him, we will remember his smile and his love of all people." His body was returned as part of the deal to end the war in the second phase on October 14, 2025.

Nattapong is married and a father. He was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz where he worked in an avocado orchard. He was murdered in captivity shortly afterwards by the Mujahideen terrorist organization. On June 7, 2025, his body was recovered in a special operation by the IDF and Shin Bet in Rafah.

Ziv Dado, a logistics manager in Golani Brigade 51, was killed in battle on October 7. For 17 days he was considered missing until it was revealed that his body had been abducted to the Gaza Strip. Ziv, 36, was the father of a six-month-old Maya and the husband of Stav. Ziv's body was recovered on December 7 in a special operation by the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) and the IDF.

Itai came to Be'eri to visit his mother, Orit, for the holiday and it appears he was abducted from her home. When Hamas terrorists arrived at the kibbutz, they entered the home and contact was lost at that time. Since then, he has gone missing. His phone was last tracked to a field near the Gaza border. Itai's mother and father, Orit and Rafi, were murdered in the attack. Itai, a graduate of psychology and economics, is a coach in the practice of the Satya method. His grandparents were founders and pillars of the kibbutz. On January 15, 2024, a Hamas propaganda video was published showing Itai along with hostage Yossi Sharabi. The next day, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Itai was murdered and was still held in Hamas captivity. On December 4, 2024, his body was recovered to Israel in a special operation by the IDF and Shin Bet.

Tamir Adar, the grandson of Yafa Adar, was abducted from Nir Oz. He was married to Hadas and the father of two children, 3-year-old Neta and 7-year-old Assaf. Tamir put his family in the safe room and went out to fight the terrorists. He worked in the Ramon Foundation as a social group leader, and ran educational programs in the school Yuvelei Habsor. He recently decided to fulfil his dream and work in agriculture on the kibbutz, close to nature and to the fields of the kibbutz that he loved so much. In addition, he joined the educational management of the kibbutz. Tamir’s grandmother, Yafa Adar, was returned from captivity in the first round of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. On January 5, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced Tamir was murdered. Tamir's body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 21, 2025.

Carmel is the sister-in-law of Yarden Roman-Gat who was also kidnapped, and the sister of Alon who managed to flee with his young daughter. Carmel was a nurse by profession and loved all people. A few days before the attack, she returned from a few months trip to India. Her mother, Kineret, was murdered. Her father managed to see through the slits that his daughter was abducted by the terrorists. Yarden was released on November 29, 2023. Carmel turned 40 years old on May 16, 2024 while she remained in Hamas captivity. On August 31, 2024, her family was informed that she was murdered in Hamas captivity and her body was brought back to Israel by the IDF.

Mohammad is a father to 13 children, the youngest of whom was born three months ago and a tracker in Gaza Division's Northern Brigade. In early December 2023, his family was informed he was abducted by Hamas to the Gaza Strip. Mohammad's uncle said, "Our lives have not been routine since Mohammad did not return to the family from the beginning of the war. It is not easy for us to cope with such a challenging atmosphere, especially because we do not know if he is alive or not. We hope to receive good news that will bring joy to all of us. The children ask every day about their father, when he will return, and we have no way to provide answers." On June 24, 2024, the IDF announces to his family that he fell in battle on October 7 and his body was abducted to Gaza. On October 15, 2025, his body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war.

Asaf Hamami, who served as commander of the Southern Brigade of the Gaza Division, fell in battle on October 7th while defending Kibbutz Nirim. His body was abducted to Gaza along with the bodies of Tomer Ahimas, Hamami's relative, and Kiril Brodski, a soldier in his unit. Hamami, 41, a resident of Kiryat Ono, left behind a wife and three children. Before serving as commander of the Southern Brigade, he also served as commander of the Negev Brigade and before that as commander of the Commando Brigade's training base and commander of the Tzavar battalion of the Givati Brigade. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 2, 2025.

Tal was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak. He was a third-generation resident of the kibbutz, working as an engineer in a factory in Revivim. He was married to Ella and father of three: twin nine-year-olds and a six-year-old. Ella, who is pregnant with their fourth child, is documenting his pregnancy and the process she is going through. On Saturday morning, Tal left the house, informing Ella that there were terrorists in the kibbutz and telling her to lock the door. Ella blocked the door with furniture and armed herself with a knife. At 10am, contact with Tal was lost. Ella and their three children - Nir, Einav, and Udi, were only rescued in the evening from the shelter. On December 13, 2023, the family found out Tal was murdered on October 7 and his body was taken into Gaza. On May 2, 2024, Ella gave birth to their fourth son, who will never get to know his father. On October 20, 2025, Tal's body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war.

Chanan Yablonka, a father of two, attended the music festival in Re'im with four of his friends and was kidnapped. According to his family, he had said he left the party. His car was found in the area of Miflasim. His four friends, including the soccer player Lior Asulin, were murdered. The body of one of his friends was found in the car, and the bodies of the other three were found near the car, but Chanan was not found. Chanan loves sports and music. During the past few months, it had been unclear what had happened, and on January 4, 2024, an IDF spokesperson announced that Yablonka was determined to have been kidnapped. On May 24, 2024, the IDF announced that Yablonka was murdered on October 7 and his body was recovered in a special operation by the IDF and the Shin Bet. Reuven, his father, said in an interview, "We have hope, we already know he has been kidnapped for 90 days but now we received the joyous news. We have a lot of hope, but we don't know what condition he is in. Two soldiers have been here since the first week. Now they told us he is kidnapped and it restores our hope, this is a sign of life."

Sudthisak was kidnapped from Kibbutz Be'eri. He was murdered while working in the plantations near the kibbutz. On May 16, 2024, the IDF spokesman announced that his family had been informed that he was murdered on October 7. His body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war on December 3, 2025.

On Saturday morning, Elad was in contact with his sister, Karmit, and in their last conversation, he told her he needed "reinforcement" because there were terrorists in his home in Nir Oz, while there were gunshots in the background. The conversation was cut off abruptly. His father, Rami, was murdered, and his mother, Hannah, was also kidnapped. Hannah was released from Hamas captivity as part of the first phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange on November 24, 2023. Over the past few years, Elad had actively engaged in education and advocacy on behalf of the kibbutz. Apart from his role as a farmer, he was an avid supporter of Maccabi Haifa. Elad was a committed social activist, dedicating his time each week to support the ongoing struggle for the release of the bodies of Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul who were abducted to Gaza before October 7. On December 19, 2023, a video of him and the hostage Gadi Moses was published in which they appeared to be in relatively good condition. On January 8, 2024, the Islamic Jihad published a video with another sign of life from Elad. On April 6, 2024, the body of the Elad Katzir was recovered in a special operation by the IDF after he was murdered by Hamas.

Dror was abducted from his home in Be'eri along with his children, Alma and Noam, and his nephew Liam. His wife, Yonat, a well-known furniture designer, was murdered. His eldest son, Yali, who was not at home at the time, was spared. Dror, a chef specializing in dairy cuisine, worked at a dairy factory in Be'eri producing gourmet cheeses. Noam and Alma were released from captivity as part of the second phase of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 25, 2023. Liam was released on November 29, 2023. On May 2, 2024, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Dror was murdered on October 7 and his body was still held by Hamas. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on November 25, 2025.

Aviv was abducted together with his wife, Liat from Kibbutz Nir Oz. They are parents to Aya (18), Neta (20) and Ofri (22). Aviv went out to fight off the terrorists and his wife stayed in the safe room with their dog. In the early hours he was still in contact with Liat and updating her on what was happening. Aviv was an important member of Kibbutz Nir Oz and coordinated the agricultural machinery branch of the kibbutz. Aya, their youngest daughter, was at Kibbutz Lotan in the Arava. The boys, Neta and Ofri, were in their apartments in the kibbutz. The children and Aviv's mother, Telma, are all safe. On November 30, 2023, the day after Liat's release as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal, the family was updated that Aviv was murdered. On June 11, 2025, his body was recovered by the IDF and returned to Israel.

Tsachi Idan was separated from his family and abducted to Gaza according to assessments. In a livestreamed video out of the family home, all the terrors that the family went through were recorded, including the shooting of their eldest child, 18-year-old Maayan, who was killed. Tsachi's wife Gali and their two other children, Yael (11) and Shachar (9), were spared. The terrorists tied up the hands of Tsachi and his neighbor, Omri Miran, who had been brought into Tsachi's home by the terrorists, and they were taken away, presumably in his car. Tsachi was murdered in Hamas captivity and his body was returned to Israel as part of the final phase of the second hostage exchange deal on February 27, 2025.

Ohad Yahalomi was abducted from his home in Nir Oz while injured. His son Eitan was also abducted separately from him. The kidnappers managed to break into the safe room in which the Yahalomi family were hiding. They shot at Ohad as he stayed in the house and contact was lost from that moment. They took hold of his wife Bat Sheva and his two daughters on one motorbike and Eitan on another. Bat Sheva with great courage managed to jump off the motorbike while still holding her two daughters and did not stopping running until she reached a safe place. Eitan remained alone. Ohad works for the Nature and Parks Authority. He is a strong man, athletic, loves travelling and nature, and is a family man. Eitan was released on November 27, 2023. Ohad was murdered in captivity and his body was returned to Israel as part of the final phase of the second hostage exchange deal on February 27, 2025.

Nadav was abducted with his mother, Hanna Peri, from their home in Kibbutz Nirim. On October 7, at around 8:30, his sister received a WhatsApp image showing their mother and brother being held in their home by armed Hamas terrorists. A similar image was also posted on the mother's WhatsApp story. A surviving neighbor testified to seeing them being taken outside. The next day, the lifeless body of the eldest son, Roi, was found. Nadav was a computer enthusiast who enjoyed science fiction literature, thriller movies, and bridge. His mother Hanna was released in the first hostage-prisoner exchange on November 24, 2023. Nadav's 52nd birthday fell on April 1, 2024. On June 3, 2024, it was announced that he died in captivity and on August 20, the IDF announced that his body was recovered from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and brought back to Israel.

Ravid, a resident of Nir Oz, was abducted from the kibbutz on October 7th. His sister, Doron, and her daughters Aviv and Raz who visited the kibbutz for the weekend were also abducted and were released in the first hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. Ravid worked with youth at risk and was involved in many social initiatives. He was divorced with two children: Shachar and Shira and has been in a relationship with Rotem Yana for five years. Together they had a five-month-old daughter, Alma. The family of Ravid Katz, who was declared abducted, received a message on November 27th that according to information received by the security system, Katz was murdered and his body remains held in Gaza. On July 24, 2024, his body was recovered from Khan Younis in a special military operation.

On the morning of October 7, Eitan took a taxi ride from Rishon LeZion to Kibbutz Be'eri. At 7:30 he called his family to inform them that rockets had been fired, ten minutes later his son heard him screaming for help and heard sounds of him struggling. The phone call remained connected and the family could hear what was happening until 8:30. They heard someone ask Eitan his name. They have since lost contact with him. On December 8, 2023, the family was informed that Eitan was murdered and his body was kidnapped by Hamas. His body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 14, 2025.

According to assessments, Ron was murdered and kidnapped from the Miflasim area as he was fleeing from missile fire to his home in Rehovot. For several long weeks, his family did not know what had happened to him. He had left for a bike ride on the Be'eri Singletrack the morning of October 7. When he heard the siren, he headed home but was stopped by a group of terrorists on Route 232 near Miflasim. Only at the start of December, his family received an indication from the IDF that he was kidnapped to the Gaza Strip. Ron was married to Ayelet and was the father to two daughters, Shai and Gal. He was a family man, loved bike riding, and went out for a ride every Saturday, just like on Saturday, October 7 when he was kidnapped during a biking trip. Ron loved to travel Israel and the world and loved music. On May 17, 2024, his body was found and recovered to Israel in a special operation by the IDF and Shin Bet, until then, it was unclear what happened to him.

Yossi was abducted from his home in Be'eri together with his daughter's boyfriend, Ofir Engel. His brother Eli was also abducted from Be'eri. On January 15, 2024, a Hamas propaganda video was published showing Yossi and Itai Svirsky. The next day, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Yossi was murdered and was still held in Hamas captivity. Nira, Yossi's wife, said, "We were in the safe room and three terrorists entered our home speaking Arabic. The girls hid under the blanket and Yossi guarded the door to the safe room. After ten seconds, the door opened and they burst in with weapons drawn. My youngest daughter was in a tank top. One of the terrorists took a shirt from a laundry bag and asked her to put it on. When we got to the road, they put us all together, there were about ten of us, multiple families. They shouted at my husband Yossi and at Ofir to get into the car there. They got into the car and drove away". Nira and the girls, Yuval, Ofir, and Oran, are waiting for Yossi to be returned home. Ofir Engel was released in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 29th. Yossi's father, Lian, and his nephews, Yahil (13) and Noya (16), were killed. Yossi's body was returned to Israel in the deal to end the war on October 13, 2025.

Youssef had worked the last 19 years in a dairy farm in Kibbutz Holit, together with his three children. At the end of the work day, he and his daughter went to pick olives by the entrance of the kibbutz where they encountered Hamas terrorists. His children, Hamza, Bilal, and Aisha were also abducted. Pictures of Hamza and Bilal were seen on Hamas channels, with an armed Hamas terrorist standing over them. They also took pictures of Youssef and Aisha. Following the photos, it is assumed that they were abducted. Youssef is a diabetic and needs medication. Aisha and Bilal were released on November 30th, 2023. Hamza and Youssef remained in Hamas captivity. They were both murdered in captivity and their bodies were recovered to Israel on January 8, 2025.

Ronen went to fight against the terrorists who attacked Kibbutz Nir Oz on the morning of October 7th. He left his wife, Karina, and their daughters, Mika and Yuval, at home - they were kidnapped separately from him. Ronen's brother said: "We spoke to them last when they were in the shelter and Ronen was armed. Someone from the kibbutz told us that they spoke to Karina during the abduction, and Ronen was not with them and had gone to fight. We know for sure that the three girls were together. We do not know where Ronen is and what his fate was - but at 10 in the morning, the terrorists posted pictures on Ronen's story and footage of them on a tank." Ronen was an optimistic young man with a constant smile on his face, involved in newspaper photography. He recently completed studies abroad on water lines and worked in the kibbutz's carpentry and furniture renovation. He was also an avid motorcycle enthusiast. Ronen suffered from diabetes. Karina, Mika, and Yuval were released on November 27, 2023. Four days after the release of his daughters and wife, Kibbutz Nir Oz was informed Ronen was murdered on October 7th. His body was recovered to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 18, 2025.

Ilan was a part of the emergency staff of Kibbutz Be'eri and went out to fight the terrorists. His wife Shiri and 17-year-old daughter Noga were home at the time of the attack. When the terrorists entered the house, Noga hid under the bed and reported to the family's WhatsApp group that her mother had been kidnapped. After Shiri was abducted, the terrorists set fire to the house, and Noga, following her older sister's advice, escaped through the shelter window and hid behind a bush. Shiri and Noga were released in the second hostage-prisoner exchange on November 25, 2023. On January 1, 2024, Kibbutz Be'eri announced that Ilan Weiss was murdered during the attack. On August 28, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered to Israel.

Maya, the renowned caregiver from Nir Oz and mother of four was abducted to the Gaza Strip. Her husband Avner was murdered during the attack. Maya worked in the education system of Nir Oz for many years, and had unconditionally devoted herself to the children, staff, and profession itself. After hours she was always ready to lend a hand to the parents with their children. On October 7th she got up early to make sure the children's home in Nir Oz was ready for the next day. She was caught in the crossfire and after that there were reports of terrorists roaming the village. She managed to write that she was hiding under one of the children's beds and since then contact has been lost. On December 1st, 2023, it was announced from Nir Oz that Maya had been murdered and her body was held by Hamas. On July 24, 2024, her body was was recovered in a special operation by the IDF and brought back to Israel.

Itzik Gelernter was kidnapped from the festival in Re'im. The three friends who were with him in the car and arrived at the festival with him were killed. His family realized that he was kidnapped after his cellphone was located at Beit Lahia in the Gaza Strip. His daughter, Yarden Pivco, said in an interview with Kan 2, "Dad loves life. On Saturday, we thought he was sleeping in the basement because of the missiles and there was no reception. Dad is wise, strong, and resourceful. He was with three people who have already been buried, and this makes it even more difficult." On May 17, 2024, as part of the activities of the IDF and Shin Bet, the body of Itzik Gelernter was found and brought back to Israel. According to evaluations, he was murdered on October 7 and his body was kidnapped.

Michel was abducted from the Sderot area. The last time he spoke with his family was on Saturday, October 7 at 6:57, when he left his house in Sderot to retrieve his 4-year-old granddaughter from a base near Re'im where she was staying with her father. "He and we did not know about the danger outside," his family said. "At 7:23 we called him and they answered us in Arabic and said Hamas, Hamas! The only hint we have is a video posted on Hamas networks showing phones and personal belongings of Israelis, among them his license and other documents." His family also said about him that "he is a great father and grandfather, his grandchildren are his pride, a man who dedicated his life to the Gaza Envelope, and a computer business owner. Whenever someone needs help he is the first one to jump. He loves traveling in Israel and Jeep 4x4 trips. He was about to finish his teacher training studies." They also say he is diabetic and has Crohn's disease. Michel is a dual Brazilian-Israeli citizen, born and raised in Brazil. On May 24, 2024, the IDF announced that Nisenbaum was murdered on October 7 and his body was recovered in a special operation by the IDF and the Shin Bet.

Yair Yaakov was abducted along with his partner Meirav Tal, who was visiting him in Nir Oz. Initially, Meirav informed her family that Yair was securing the door of the safe room. The last contact was at 9:20, when she sent a voice message saying "Help me, call the police, Yair is wounded. They are inside the house." The next day, a Hamas video was released showing Meirav and Yair being taken out of the safe room. In another video, Meirav and Yair are seen being put into a car and Meirav is heard saying "Leave him alone, he's wounded". Yair's sons, Yagil (12) and Or (16) were also abducted to Gaza from another house. Yair's eldest daughter, 21, was not at home that morning - and was spared. Yagil and Or were released on November 27, 2023, Meirav was released the next day on November 28, 2023. On February 15, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Yair was confirmed to have been murdered on October 7 and his body was still held in Hamas captivity. On June 11, 2025, his body was recovered by the IDF and returned to Israel.

Lior was known as the ambulance driver of Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak. Argentinean to the core, he was an avid cyclist and admired Shlomo Artzi. Married to Yaffa for 38 years, he was a father to Noam, Nadav, Bar, and Ben, and a grandfather to Tomer, Dagan, and Shai. Two years ago, he suffered a severe heart attack. On October 7, he fought terrorists and managed to report that he was wounded. On May 7, 2024, exactly 7 months after the massacre, Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak announced that Lior was murdered on October 7. His body was recovered on November 7, 2025 as part of the deal to end the war.

Judith Weiss, 65 years old, was abducted from her home in Be'eri on October 7th. On November 16th her body was found in Gaza near Shifa Hospital during an IDF operation. Soldiers from the 603rd Combat Battalion 7 recovered Judith's body to Israel. Judith, who was diagnosed with breast cancer three months prior to her abduction, was declared kidnapped based on her phone's GPS being tracked in Gaza. Her husband Shmuel was murdered in the kibbutz and her son Daniel managed to escape the incident. In the family's home, a document of Hamas terrorists was found, containing a list of Arabic sentences and their Hebrew translation, such as "I will kill you", "Take off your pants", "You are captive" and more.

Itzik was abducted from his home in Nir Oz. He was shot in the hand, and his brother, Dani, tried to guide him over the phone on how to apply a tourniquet. His brother recounted that Itzik tried to close the shelter door and told him, "Dani, this is the end." He was abducted along with his brother-in-law, Alex Dancyg, who was murdered in captivity. Itzik is a father of two, lived for many years in Denmark, and returned to the kibbutz after his divorce. He was a devoted soccer fan and a passionate supporter of Maccabi Tel Aviv. In the February 2025 hostage deal, one of the returning hostages testified that he had seen Elgarat alive in January 2024. On February 27, 2025, his body was returned to Israel as part of the final phase of the second hostage exchange deal. Itzik was murdered in captivity in Gaza.

Judith ("Judy") was abducted along with her husband, Gad ("Gadi"). The two left for an early morning walk in the fields of Nir Oz at the time of the attack and never returned. They called the kibbutz from the field alerting the community of missiles coming from Gaza, and later made another call in which Judy reported that Gadi was seriously injured and in need of help. Judith worked as an English teacher. In recent years, she purchased new tools to help the students of the Gaza envelope suffering from anxiety and worked with them through mindfulness, meditation, singing, and therapy with puppet theater. Her students say that each student was the entire world for her. Judy and Gadi have four children. On December 22, 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that the family received a message that Gadi was murdered by Hamas on October 7th and that his body was still held in Gaza. On December 28, 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Judy was also murdered on October 7th and that her body was still held in Hamas captivity. On June 5, 2025, the IDF announced that her body was recovered to Israel along with that of her husband, Gadi.

Ofra was abducted from Be'eri. She went for a walk in the kibbutz the morning of October 7th and at 6:30 her tracks stopped and she was abducted. Her husband, Sammy, a Parkinson's patient, who was sitting on the couch was murdered. Yael, Ofra and Sammy's daughter with a mild mental disability, stayed alone in the safe room when the explosions started. She understood something bad was happening and called her brothers and aunt for help from the safe room. After the terrorists burned the house, since she no longer heard them in the house, she decided to leave the safe room and scream for help. Miraculously, a group of soldiers heard her and saved her life. Ofra worked for twenty years in a pen (where she raised calves) and when it closed, she went to work at the local petting zoo. Her afternoons were always dedicated to her grandchildren. On December 1, 2023 her family was informed that Ofra was murdered in Hamas captivity. On June 22, 2025, the IDF announced that her body was recovered in special operation.

Gad ("Gadi") and his wife, Judith ("Judy"), were abducted from Nir Oz. They were out for their usual walk in the fields of the kibbutz, (they can be seen on security cameras leaving through the gate), when they reported to the kibbutz that they noticed missiles being fired from Gaza. Later, Judy contacted the kibbutz reporting that Gadi was seriously injured and that they needed help. Neither Judy nor Gadi were heard from again. Their phones were found to be located in Gaza. Gadi was a skilled player of wind instruments, and a down-to-earth person connected to the land. He was from Kibbutz Ein Hashofet. He and Judy had four children. On December 22, 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that the family received a message that Gadi was murdered by Hamas on October 7th and that his body was being held in Gaza. On December 28, 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Judy was also murdered on October 7th and that her body was still in Hamas captivity. On June 5, 2025, the IDF announced that his body was recovered to Israel along with that of his wife, Judith.

Meni, from Kibbutz Be'eri, was murdered on October 7th and his body was abducted and held by Hamas. His wife, Ayelet, was also murdered in the attack on the kibbutz. Meni and Ayelet were separated from their four children: Mor, Gal, Bar, and Guney, and six grandchildren. His children recount that he was the most dedicated and loving father and grandfather, a family man who cared for everyone around him, a man who loved the sea, and an avid supporter of Hapoel Tel Aviv Football Club. Meni moved to Be'eri when he was 13, and throughout his life, he worked several roles in the kibbutz. He served as a printer at the at the Be'eri print shop, managed the kibbutz's general store and pool, and also worked as the chief economist. At the same time, he played and served as a coach in the local football team. Meni's body was recovered as part of the deal to end the war on November 13, 2025.

Eliyahu Margalit was abducted from Nir Oz in an unknown condition. At 7:00 on Shabbat morning he went to feed the horses in the kibbutz and there were many traces of blood in the area. His horses were also taken along with him. His daughter, Nili Margalit, was also abducted and released on November 30, 2023. The day after the her release, the family was notified that Eliyahu was killed in captivity by Hamas. Eliyahu's body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 17, 2025.

Alex Dancyg was abducted from his home in Nir Oz. He had spoken with his son around 8:30am on October 7 and hasn't been heard from since. The IDF used the signal from Dancyg's phone in Gaza to determine that he was taken hostage. He is a son of Holocaust survivors, a history teacher and historian, and an activist for Jewish-Polish relations. He was also the manager of the Nir Oz water supply. Alex underwent heart surgery in the past and was held captive without medication. On July 22, 2024, it was announced that Alex was murdered in captivity. On August 20, 2024, the IDF announced that his body was recovered from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and was brought back to Israel.

Avraham Munder, who grew up in Givatayim, was abducted from Nir Oz together with his wife, Ruti, daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad. He was a legendary warehouseman of the Nirlat factory, a member of the Nichuchei Eshkol group, and a talented singer with a good voice. His son, Roi, was murdered in the attack. His wife, Ruti, daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad, were released in the first stage of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 24, 2023. On August 20, 2024, Kibbutz Nir Oz announced that Avraham Munder died in captivity and his body was recovered by IDF forces from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and brought back to Israel.

Chaim was abducted from his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz. A father of five and a grandfather of thirteen, he was a man of peace who actively worked to foster connection between Palestinians and Israelis. Chaim and his wife Osnat personally helped transport many sick Palestinian patients over the border to seek medical aid in Israel. Chaim previously worked as a cinematography instructor at Sapir College, before leaving teaching to become a sculptor and curator. When the attacks began on October 7th, Chaim and Osnat went into their house's safe room. Their house was eventually broken into by terrorists. Realizing what was happening, Chaim attempted to resist the intruders' advances, opening the safe room door with force in order to try and hit a terrorist on the other side of it. The assailant fled, regrouping with more terrorists, prompting Chaim to help his wife Osnat hide in the shelter while he went to find assistance. He closed the safe room door and stayed on the outside, to try and convince the terrorists he was alone in the house. His quick thinking saved Osnat's life. The kidnappers assured Chaim that no harm would come to him if he didn't resist. He did not resist and was taken hostage. Osnat, who survived the attack while witnessing everything in hiding, could only watch as her husband was kidnapped. The family then found out that Chaim and Osnat's son Daniel was tragically murdered during the attack on the kibbutz. On December 18, 2023, a video was published showing a sign of life from Chaim as he was shown alongside hostages Yoram Metzger and Amiram Cooper. April 13, 2024 marked Chaim's 80th birthday while still in captivity. On June 3, 2024, it was announced that he was confirmed to have died in captivity and on August 20, the IDF announced that his body was recovered from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and brought back to Israel.

Yoram and his wife Tamar ("Tami") were abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz. They are parents to three children and grandparents to seven. Yoram worked at the Nirlat factory and, in recent years, at the kibbutz's garage. He was an excellent cook, a history enthusiast, a member of the kibbutz parliament, and involved in Nir Oz's vineyard. Tami arrived at the kibbutz in the 70s and worked over the years in the commune, in education, and in the general store. She is a bookworm and a fan of Viva shows. She was released in the hostage-prisoner exchange deal on November 28, 2023, while Yoram remains in captivity. On December 18, 2023, a video was published showing a sign of life from Yoram as he was shown alongside hostages Chaim Peri and Amiram Cooper. On June 3, 2024, it was announced that he died in captivity and on August 20, the IDF announced that his body was recovered from a tunnel in the Khan Younis area and brought back to Israel.

Oded was abducted from his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz along with his wife Yocheved, who was released by Hamas on October 23. For many years, Oded was a journalist and had a column in the newspaper 'Al HaMishmar'. He is a freedom fighter, human rights activist, and passionate pianist. His nephew and sister described how they spoke with him last on the Saturday morning, when he said he could hear voices in Arabic but was not worried. On February 20, 2025, Oded's body was returned to Israel as part of a deal.

Amiram was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with his wife Nurit, who was released on October 23, 2023. Amiram had worked for years as the chief economist for Hevel Maon factory enterprises. He also published numerous books of poetry, wrote plays, and published articles on politics and economics. Amiram was a father of three and a grandfather of nine. He was kidnapped without medication that was critical for his survival. Amiram turned 85 on December 10, 2023 while still in captivity. On December 18, 2023, a video was published showing a sign of life from Amiram as he was shown alongside hostages Yoram Metzger and Chaim Peri. On June 3, 2024, it was announced that Amiram died in captivity. His body was returned to Israel on October 30, 2025 as part of the deal to end the war.

Arye Zalmanovich ('Zalman') was a resident of Kibbutz Nir Oz, father of Boaz and Yoav and grandfather of five grandchildren. He was one of the founders of the kibbutz. Communications with Arye were lost at 9:30 on Saturday morning, when he spoke to his family for the last time. He was born in Haifa and came with the core of the "Nahal" youth movement to the kibbutz and became an expert agriculturalist, specializing in wheat cultivation in the Negev conditions. In recent years, he continued to wear his work clothes every morning and went out on his scooter to drink coffee and chat with the young farmers. He was a man of wide knowledge of history and the Land of Israel, he disappeared without his glasses and hearing aids. On December 1, 2023, Kibbutz Nir Oz reported he was murdered. Arye's body was returned to Israel as part of the deal to end the war on October 21, 2025.

Shlomo Mansour was abducted from Kisufim. On October 7th, Shlomo and his wife, Mazal, were in the safe room. Terrorists fired at the door and forced entry. Mazal hid in the bathroom. The terrorists found Shlomo, grabbed him and took him out of the house. Shlomo is a Holocaust survivor who survived the Farhud pogrom in Iraq. He was a founder of the kibbutz Kisufim and had been living there with his wife Mazal for 60 years, with 13 grandchildren. He is a professional carpenter. In recent years, he and his wife Mazal volunteered in the army and renovated and renewed the inscriptions on the gravestones in the cemetery. His loved ones say that he is a man with a big heart, golden hands and a man of action. He is a father to children, grandfather to grandchildren, and he has five brothers and many friends in the kibbutz. "It is impossible to imagine how an 85-year-old man can cope with the hell forced upon him captivity imposed on him after his heroism." On February 11, 2025, Kibbutz Kissufim announced that Shlomo Mansour was murdered on October 7. His body was returned to Israel as part of the final phase of the second hostage exchange deal on February 27, 2025.