His body was returned on 27 February, along with three others, as part of a hostage-prisoner swap between Israel and Palestinian militants. The funeral procession saw 45 official vehicles from across Israel accompany the cortege, with employees lining the route to pay their respects.
The procession was set to conclude at Kibbutz Nir Oz at approximately 11:00 a.m., where the final rites would be conducted. Yahalomi was taken hostage from Kibbutz Nir Oz on 7 October 2023, after being shot in the leg while resisting the armed attackers.
His 12-year-old son, Eitan, was also kidnapped but was released in November 2023 as part of a previous hostage deal. The return of Yahalomi’s body marks a tragic chapter in the ongoing conflict, as families continue to grieve their lost loved ones.
Israel has tightened restrictions on aid to Gaza as the first phase of the ceasefire comes to an end. During an Arab summit, Egypt proposed that the Palestinian Authority take control of Gaza and announced a $53 billion reconstruction fund raised internationally.
Recently freed Israeli hostages are expected to travel to the United States for a meeting with President Trump. The emotional farewell underscored the continuing humanitarian and political challenges stemming from the 7 October attacks and their aftermath.
