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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday that Captain Omer Neutra, 21, a tank platoon commander in the IDF’s 77th Battalion of the 7th Brigade, died on October 7, 2023, during Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel.
His body was taken by Hamas to the Gaza Strip, where it remained for over a year before new intelligence confirmed his death.
Neutra, a lone soldier from New York, was abducted by Hamas along with several other members of his tank crew, including tank gunner Nimrod Cohen, who is still being held in Gaza, tank loader Oz Daniel, and driver Shaked Dahan. The IDF has confirmed that Dahan died while in Hamas captivity.
The confirmation of Neutra’s death followed the uncovering of new intelligence, which allowed a special commission of rabbis, scientists, and military lawyers to definitively verify the tragic news after 14 months of uncertainty. The IDF had long suspected Neutra’s death, but there was no official confirmation until this week.
Neutra’s parents, Orna and Ronen, spoke to The Jerusalem Post on Sunday, sharing their hopes for a possible hostage deal. They mentioned the possibility of such a deal during Donald Trump’s presidential candidacy, citing Trump’s history of negotiating for hostages.
“He’s a deal maker. He’s done it before,” said Ronen Neutra. Orna Neutra added, “We’re hoping that the combined effort will finally make something move.”
Neutra’s family and friends described him as a loving and vibrant person, with a passion for sports, including soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
He was known for his warmth and optimism, and his ability to “light up the room the moment he enters,” according to the Hostages Families Forum.
The IDF confirmed that Hamas is currently holding approximately 50 living hostages and another 50 deceased hostages, part of the initial 250 abducted during the October 7 attacks.
In November 2023, around 80 hostages were released as part of a deal, and several others have since been rescued. However, many hostages remain in captivity, and some have tragically lost their lives or had their bodies recovered.
As the search for justice and recovery continues, Neutra’s family holds onto hope that diplomatic efforts will lead to the safe return of those still in Gaza.