Full Breakdown
Funeral of Staff Sergeant Itai Chen: A National Symbol of Heroism
11/9/2025, 7:49:50 PM
Core Event: The Funeral of Itai Chen
Staff Sergeant Itai Chen, who was held captive by Hamas for 760 days, was laid to rest on November 5, 2023, at the Kiryat Shaul Military Cemetery in Tel Aviv. His body was returned to Israel following his death during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. The funeral was attended by thousands, including family, friends, military officials, and prominent figures such as President Isaac Herzog and U.S. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.
Background & Context: The Circumstances of Chen's Capture
Itai Chen, a 19-year-old tank commander from Netanya, was part of the 77th Armored Battalion during the October 7 assault, which involved a significant infiltration by Hamas forces. He was captured along with his crewmates, Captain Daniel Peretz and Sergeant Tomer Leibovitz, the latter two of whom were killed in the attack. Chen's family had been vocal advocates for the return of hostages, and his story became emblematic of the broader tragedy faced by many families during this conflict.
Official Statements & Responses
During the funeral, President Isaac Herzog delivered a eulogy, describing Chen as a "hero of Israel" and a "national symbol." He emphasized the collective grief of the nation and the need for a state commission of inquiry into the events surrounding the October 7 attack. Itai's father, Ruby Chen, echoed this sentiment, demanding accountability from those responsible for the attack and calling for justice. He criticized the government for its reluctance to establish an independent inquiry, stating, "We will pursue them all and will not stop until they are required, under oath, to give every Israeli answers."
Criticism & Opposition: Calls for Accountability
Ruby Chen's remarks highlighted a growing frustration among families of victims regarding the government's handling of the situation. He criticized the current administration, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for its failure to create an impartial investigation into the circumstances of the attack. This sentiment was shared by many attendees, including Itai's brother, Roi, who called for an independent commission to investigate the events of October 7.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our dear one, our beloved one, Staff Sergeant Itai Chen, hero of Israel. At long last, you have returned to us; after more than two years of longing, of outcry, and of pain. Now, befitting the hero that you are, befitting someone whose family has become a national symbol, befitting someone whose story has become renowned throughout the world, we stand here, so many of us, to accompany you to your final rest.” — President Isaac Herzog
- “We will pursue them all and will not stop until they are required, under oath, to give every Israeli answers and to take responsibility — all within the framework of a state commission of inquiry,” — Ruby Chen, Itai's father
- “ “You are a pure angel in the sky, with your grandparents and so many heroes of this war, and you are now here together.” — Hagit Chen, Itai's mother
What's Next: Ongoing Advocacy for Justice
The Chen family, along with other bereaved families, continues to advocate for a thorough investigation into the October 7 attack. They seek to ensure that the sacrifices made by their loved ones lead to accountability and improvements in national security. The call for a state commission of inquiry remains a central theme in their ongoing efforts to seek justice for the victims of this tragedy.
