The Long Wait for Eliyahu Margalit's Return

A Beloved Figure

Eliyahu Margalit, known as Churchill, was a cherished member of Kibbutz Nir Oz. He dedicated his life to caring for animals, particularly horses and cattle.

The Tragedy

On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists took his life at the stables. His body was taken to Gaza, leaving his family in uncertainty for over two years.

The Return

Recently, Hamas returned Eliyahu's body to Israel. The Red Cross collected it from Khan Younis in Gaza. Israeli soldiers then brought it back. A military rabbi led a short ceremony, draping the body in an Israeli flag. Afterward, police transported it to a forensic institute in Tel Aviv, where experts identified the remains as Eliyahu's. The military then informed his family.

The Family's Response

The Margalit family expressed gratitude for the support they received. They also vowed to continue fighting for the return of all hostages. The Hostage Family Forum shared their grief, stating that Eliyahu's return brought some comfort but acknowledged the family's enduring pain.

The Bigger Picture

Eliyahu's body is the first to be returned out of 28 initially held by Hamas. 18 bodies of dead captives remain in Gaza. Israel claims Hamas is deliberately withholding some bodies, while Hamas asserts they cannot find them due to destruction in Gaza.

A Life Remembered

Eliyahu is survived by his wife, three children, and three grandchildren. On the morning of October 7, he left his home early to feed his horses. He was known for his dedication to the kibbutz's cattle, growing the herd from 50 calves to 5,500 at its peak.

Friends described Eliyahu as a kind and loving man with a special bond with animals. He was also close with Gilad Sharon, son of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, sharing a friendship built on mutual respect and love for animals.

Official Condolences

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office sent condolences, stating that Israel is working hard to bring back all dead hostages. The military also affirmed their commitment to this goal, urging Hamas to fulfill its part of the agreement.