Full Breakdown
Closure for Lt. Hadar Goldin: A Nation Bids Farewell
11/13/2025, 8:14:39 PM
Funeral Marks the End of a Long Wait
On November 11, 2025, Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israel Defense Forces officer whose remains were held by Hamas for over a decade, was laid to rest in Kfar Saba. His funeral drew tens of thousands of mourners, including military officials and family members, marking a poignant moment of closure for his family and the nation. Goldin was killed on August 1, 2014, during a ceasefire in the Gaza war, and his body was taken by Hamas operatives. His remains were finally returned to Israel on November 10, 2025, as part of a ceasefire agreement brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Goldin Family's Struggle
For 11 years, the Goldin family campaigned tirelessly for the return of Hadar's body, often feeling abandoned by the Israeli government. His mother, Leah Goldin, expressed the emotional toll of waiting, stating, “We waited for you 11 years, that’s a long time.” The family’s efforts gained momentum following the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which included Goldin among the hostages whose return became a national priority. His father, Simcha Goldin, criticized the government for the prolonged delay, saying, “Over 11 years, we abandoned Hadar in enemy captivity.”
Eulogies Reflect Pain and Pride
During the funeral, family members delivered heartfelt eulogies, reflecting both their grief and pride in Hadar's legacy. His twin brother, Tzur Goldin, emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “Our victory in this war is that we all, all of Israel, are here for each other.” Goldin’s fiancée, Edna Sarousi, shared her longing for Hadar and the lessons learned from his family about fighting for what is right. She remarked, “Rest in peace, my dear; you deserve to rest with dignity.”
Criticism of Government Response
The ceremony also featured pointed criticisms of the Israeli government’s handling of hostage situations. Singer Idan Amedi, who participated in the public campaign for Goldin’s return, stated, “October 7 wasn’t a tragedy; it was a failure.” He called for accountability and a thorough investigation into the events leading up to the attack. The Goldin family’s frustration with the government was palpable, as they felt their son’s plight was neglected for too long.
The Broader Implications
The return of Hadar Goldin’s remains is seen as a significant moment for Israeli society, reinforcing the principle that no soldier should be left behind. Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the IDF Chief of Staff, noted that Goldin’s return marks the end of Operation Protective Edge, stating, “Today we accompany Hadar on his final journey, which he has long deserved.” The funeral served not only as a farewell to a fallen soldier but also as a reminder of the collective responsibility to honor and bring home those who serve.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Hadar, we waited for you 11 years, it’s a long time,” — Leah Goldin, Mother
- “October 7 wasn’t a tragedy, it was a failure,” — Idan Amedi, Singer and IDF Reservist
- “Our victory in this war is that we all, all of Israel, are here for each other,” — Tzur Goldin, Twin Brother
- “We became addicted to money, honor and power.” — Simcha Goldin, Father
The funeral of Lt. Hadar Goldin encapsulated a decade-long struggle for closure, highlighting the emotional weight carried by his family and the broader implications for Israeli society.
