Story perspectives

Parents Demand Accountability in Nontraditional Mourning for Sgt. Chen

11/15/2025

26 5

Summary

Story summary

The shiva for Staff Sergeant Itay Chen in Netanya featured nontraditional mourning, as his parents Ruby and Hagit believed his return remained possible.
Ruby criticized the Israeli government for not prioritizing hostage returns or accountability, saying the people brought Itay home.
Hagit vowed to continue supporting other families of the fallen and demanded answers about October 7, 2023, as funerals for Itay Chen and others became national unity moments.

1 of 1

Story summary

The shiva for Staff Sergeant Itay Chen in Netanya featured nontraditional mourning, as his parents Ruby and Hagit believed his return remained possible.
Ruby criticized the Israeli government for not prioritizing hostage returns or accountability, saying the people brought Itay home.
Hagit vowed to continue supporting other families of the fallen and demanded answers about October 7, 2023, as funerals for Itay Chen and others became national unity moments.