IDF Confirms Death of 21-Year-Old American-Israeli Lone Soldier Capt. Omer Neutra; Body Held by Hamas

Dec 2, 2024, 09:15 AM

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that Captain Omer Maxim Neutra, a 21-year-old American-Israeli soldier, was killed during Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, and his body was kidnapped into Gaza. Neutra, originally from New York, served as a lone soldier in the IDF as a tank platoon commander in the 7th Armored Brigade's 77th Battalion. His tank was ambushed near Nir Oz, after which his body was taken into Gaza. For over 14 months, his parents, Ronen and Orna, fought tirelessly for his safe return, believing he was alive in captivity. The confirmation of his death comes after 423 days of uncertainty. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials have expressed their condolences and vowed to bring his body home for burial.