Israel's Healing Journey: Burial of Last Recovered Hostage from Gaza

Ran Gvili, an Israeli police officer, was killed during a Hamas attack and later taken hostage by Islamic Jihad in Gaza. His burial marks a significant moment of national healing for Israel, following a devastating period in the country's history. The event signifies part of a broader peace plan involving prisoner exchanges.

In a poignant moment for Israel, the remains of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli captive retrieved from Gaza, are set to be laid to rest on Wednesday. Gvili, an off-duty police officer, died fighting militants during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel.

During the deadly attack, around 250 people were abducted, and approximately 1,200 were killed, according to Israeli figures. The attack ignited a war in Gaza, resulting in high Palestinian casualties. Under a deal brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, remaining hostages were returned, coinciding with the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Gvili will be buried in Meitar, southern Israel, with Israeli leaders set to attend the funeral. The event signifies a national moment of healing after one of Israel's most traumatic experiences and completes a key phase of Trump's peace plan. The next steps involve reopening Gaza's Rafah border with Egypt.

(With inputs from agencies.)