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An Israeli flag envelops the coffin of a hostage who tragically died while in Hamas captivity.
He was taken alive during the deadly attack in 2023.
An Israeli flag envelops the coffin of Guy Illouz, a hostage who died in Hamas captivityCredit: Reuters
Guy was taken from the Nova music festival during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023Credit: AP
His body was returned as part of a prisoner-hostage exchange and a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, leading to a funeral held in Raanana yesterday.
The Israeli army stated that he was injured during his abduction and succumbed to his injuries in captivity due to a lack of medical care.
He was forced to endure two years trapped within Hamas’ terror tunnels without ever encountering another captive.
Avinatan Or, 32, was released after 738 days, revealing he had suffered from severe starvation and had lost up to 40 percent of his body weight.
Avinatan was abducted from the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, along with his girlfriend, Noa, who is 27 years old.
The first thing he requested upon his release was to see Noa, as the couple had been separated almost immediately after being captured.
Noa was released during the initial set of releases in June 2024.
They shared what was described as their “first cigarette together after two years,” according to the Times of Israel .
Avinatan also disclosed that during his time alone in the dark and terrifying tunnels throughout Gaza, he had no awareness of life above ground.
He had no contact with the outside world and left captivity without any knowledge of the events that transpired in the 25 months since his abduction.
This meant he was unaware of Noa's fate.
It was only on Monday afternoon that he learned she had been safely released over a year ago.
The father of Guy receives a hug at his son’s funeral serviceCredit: Getty
Avinatan Or reunited with Noa ArgamaniCredit: Reuters
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Guy Illouz?
Guy Illouz was taken hostage during a Hamas-led attack and later died in captivity from injuries sustained during his abduction.
How long was Avinatan Or held captive?
Avinatan Or was held captive for 738 days before being released as part of a prisoner-hostage exchange.
What was Avinatan's first request upon release?
Upon his release, Avinatan's first request was to see his girlfriend, Noa, whom he had been separated from shortly after their capture.
