Elad Katzir

Elad Katzir, a 47-year-old farmer and social activist, was abducted on October 7th from his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz, a community in southern Israel, by Hamas terrorists. During the attack, Elad's parents, Hanna and Avraham 'Rami' Katzir, were with him in their shelte. Tragically, Rami Katzir was murdered during the attack, and Hanna Katzir was initially taken hostage but was later released as part of a hostage deal.

Elad was the primary caregiver for his parents and managed to inform his sister, Carmit Palty Katzir, that terrorists had entered their home during their last conversation. He is described as a man deeply connected to the land, known for his dedication to farming and his strong social activism.

Elad was actively involved in volunteering for the Hadar Foundation, an organization that advocates for the release of Hadar Goldin and Oron Shaul, two Israeli soldiers whose bodies are held in Gaza. Despite the tense security situation and frequent attacks from Gaza, Elad insisted on working the kibbutz lands closest to the border with Gaza, emphasizing the importance of their agricultural produce.

In a 2009 interview with The New York Times following an Israeli offensive in Gaza, Elad expressed his concerns about the security situation, particularly the threat of sniper fire from the other side of the border. He conveyed a sense of unease and a lack of safety despite the military operations.

Elad's mother, Hanna, was released from captivity but suffered severe health problems due to the harsh conditions and lack of proper nutrition while being held hostage in Gaza. It was only upon her return to Israel that she learned the heartbreaking news of her husband's murder and her son Elad's ongoing captivity in Hamas' hands.