Hundreds gathered on Friday at the favorite soccer team stadium of Tsachi Idan in Tel Aviv to pay tribute ahead of his funeral.
The body of Idan was returned on Thursday when Hamas handed over what it identified as the remains of four Israeli captives in exchange for more than 600 Palestinians held by Israel. This marked the concluding exchange of the ceasefire’s initial phase, which commenced in January.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Idan, who was abducted from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, died in captivity.
Meanwhile, Egypt announced that “intense discussions” between Israel and Hamas concerning the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire started in Cairo. Although the first phase is set to end this weekend, the truce remains active during negotiations.
Around 60 individuals are still held captive, with Israel declaring 32 deceased.
In other developments, Israeli police reported on Friday the apprehension of eight individuals accused of spitting at churches in Jerusalem’s Old City. This incident has raised concerns about escalating religious tensions in the contested capital.
Security footage provided by the police revealed two young Jewish males in a procession, appearing to spit on the ground.
The arrests involved both minors and adults, though specific ages and identities were not disclosed.
Clergy members have observed an increase in attacks on church properties in the Old City since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7, 2023.
The arrests occurred as the Old City prepares for Ramadan, a Muslim holy month that could trigger potential conflicts.
In Tel Aviv, mourners on Friday conducted the funeral for Tsachi Idan, one of the last hostages released in the initial ceasefire phase between Hamas militants and Israel, as talks continue on a second phase that might conclude the Gaza conflict and ensure the return of the remaining living hostages.
The funeral procession for Tsachi Idan, a devoted soccer supporter who was 49 at the time of his abduction by Hamas militants, began from a Tel Aviv football stadium, heading to the cemetery for a private burial ceremony.
“Today, I bid farewell to my beloved brother,” expressed Idan’s sister, Noam Idan Ben Azra, addressing the assembly of Hapoel Tel Aviv supporters, the soccer team revered by Idan. “I sought his forgiveness on our behalf, for his return in a coffin rather than walking as he was taken.”
Idan was seized from Kibbutz Nahal Oz. Tragically, his eldest daughter, Maayan, was killed as militants fired through their family safe room’s door.
