Yesterday, the body of abducted IDF soldier Staff Sergeant Oz Daniel was returned to Israel by Hamas. For two painful years, staff at Laniado Hospital prayed for this moment, the moment Oz would be brought home and laid to rest in Israel, as he deeply deserved.

On the morning of the October 7th attack, Oz was stationed at the “White House” IDF post between Kibbutz Nir Oz and Kibbutz Nirim. When Hamas terrorists launched their assault, Oz mobilised with his commander, Captain Omer Neutra, and fellow soldiers Sgt. Shaked Dahan and Sgt. Nimrod Cohen, setting out in their tank to defend Israeli civilians.

Their tank was struck with RPGs and explosive charges. Despite the attack, and under the leadership of Captain Neutra, Oz managed to escape the damaged vehicle. Instead of seeking safety, he chose to continue fighting courageously until his final moments. Oz, Omer, and Shaked were killed in the battle, and their bodies were taken into Gaza.

It was only after 141 agonising days, with no information on his fate, that Oz was officially declared fallen. He was just 19 years old.

Oz is survived by his parents, Meirav and Amir, and his twin sister, Hadar. His loved ones describe him as sharp-witted, steadfast in his values, full of life, and always seen with a radiant, unforgettable smile—a description echoed by all who knew him.

Oz’s mother, Meirav, works with BioGenCell, a research company based on the Laniado campus dedicated to developing breakthrough treatments for ischemic limb disease. We send her, and the entire Daniel family, our deepest love, strength, and support at this most difficult time.

May Oz’s memory be a blessing.

May his courage never be forgotten.