The Long Wait for Eliyahu Margalit's Return

Eliyahu Margalit, known as Churchill, was a beloved figure at Kibbutz Nir Oz. He spent his life caring for animals, especially horses and cattle. On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists killed him at the stables. His body was taken to Gaza. For over two years, his family lived in uncertainty. Recently, Hamas returned Eliyahu's body to Israel. The Red Cross collected it from Khan Younis in Gaza. Then, Israeli soldiers brought it back. A military rabbi led a short ceremony. The body was draped in an Israeli flag. After that, police took it to a forensic institute in Tel Aviv. Experts identified the remains as Eliyahu's. Then, the military told his family. The Margalit family expressed gratitude for the support they received. They also promised to keep fighting for the return of all hostages. The Hostage Family Forum shared their grief. They said Eliyahu's return brought some comfort. But they also acknowledged the family's lasting pain. Eliyahu's body is the first to be returned out of 28 initially held by Hamas. Now, 18 bodies of dead captives remain in Gaza. Israel claims Hamas is deliberately withholding some bodies. Hamas says they can't find them due to destruction in Gaza. Eliyahu is survived by his wife, three children, and three grandchildren. He left his home early on October 7 to feed his horses. He was known for his dedication to the kibbutz's cattle. He grew the herd from 50 calves to 5, 500 at its peak. Friends described Eliyahu as a kind and loving man. He had a special bond with animals. He was also close with Gilad Sharon, son of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. They shared a friendship built on mutual respect and love for animals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office sent condolences. They said Israel is working hard to bring back all dead hostages. The military also stated their commitment to this goal. They urged Hamas to fulfill its part of the agreement.