Israel Mourns: Slain Hostage Idan Shtivi Laid to Rest | WATCH

Hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv today to bid farewell to Idan Shtivi, a young Israeli who was kidnapped from the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, and whose body was retrieved from Gaza by IDF forces last week.

The funeral procession, heavy with grief and national mourning, was attended by friends, family, and supporters of the hostages still held in Gaza. Many carried Israeli flags and photos of Shtivi, turning the streets into a silent march of remembrance.

Shtivi’s mother, Dalit, broke down in tears as she addressed her son one last time. “On my birthday, you were rescued and returned to me,” she said. “Thank you for the 28 years I was blessed with you, and sorry I couldn't protect you."

The ceremony was also marked by a moving tribute from singer Evyatar Banai, who performed in honor of Idan.

The funeral is now live for the ones who want to pay their last goodbyes to Idan Shtivi:

Mayor Raz Kinstlich said: "Idan Shtivi, of blessed memory, was murdered by despicable killers, and his body was brought back to us over the weekend after 694 agonizing days. The entire city of Rishon LeZion mourns and stands with his beloved family. I urge all residents to come out, pay their respects, and join in escorting him to his eternal rest."

Ayelet, Idan's aunt, told Walla: "It's a heavy feeling, but with a touch of closure. I can't say I'm happy, it's more about being able to grieve properly. Thank you to the brave IDF soldiers, and thank God no one was lost in the operation."

Idan had a passion for nature, photography, and animals. He was deeply attached to dogs and other creatures and was about to begin his second year studying sustainability and governance at Reichman University. He was always thoughtful of others, often putting their needs before his own. Idan leaves behind his parents, Eli and Dalit; his siblings, Omri, Hila, and Ailin; and his partner, Stav.

Idan showed up at the Nova festival early on October 7 to film his friends performing and leading workshops. He stayed outside the main area. When the attack started, he helped a young man and woman he'd just met escape, a decision that tragically led to his abduction. On the way, they ran into terrorists posing as police officers who opened fire. Idan was badly wounded but kept trying to get away.

They switched to their friend Guy Iluz's car, but it broke down after a short distance. The terrorists charged at them and started shooting. Three of Idan's friends, Alon, Bar Lior, and Yulia, were killed at close range. Iluz and Idan fled on foot into nearby orchards and hid. Iluz, hurt in the hand, managed to call emergency services after about 90 minutes, reporting: "Idan is with me, seriously injured." But rescuers never arrived, and the two were eventually captured and taken to Gaza.

For months, Idan's family lived in limbo. At first, he was listed as missing. It took three months for the IDF to confirm he'd been kidnapped to Gaza. A full year later, on October 7, 2024, they learned he had been killed on that fateful day, with his body held by Hamas.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum had confirmed Shtivi’s death. His body’s recovery brought a painful but final closure for his family.

As the funeral ended, chants of “Bring them home” echoed among mourners, a reminder that 48 hostages remain in Gaza, their fate still uncertain.

May Idan's memory be a blessing and may all the hostages be returned soon.