Gadi Moshe Mozes

Gadi Mozes, aged 79 at the time of his capture, was a resident of Kibbutz Nir Oz and a lifelong farmer with expertise in potato cultivation. His life partner was Efrat Katz, aged 69, and they had a large extended family in Nir Oz.

On October 7, a the Hamas attack unfolded Mozes attempted to negotiate with the terrorists who had infiltrated Kibbutz Nir Oz. The perpetrators demanded money and the keys to his car. Mozes was last seen outside his home during this confrontation.

Inside the house, Mozes's partner, Efrat Katz, was present with her daughter, Doron Katz Asher, who was visiting for the weekend with her two young children, Raz and Aviv Asher.

Gadi Mozes was taken captive separately from Efrat and her daughter and their grandchildren. In the days following the attack, a photo of him taken by Hamas was discovered by his son. The family faced an agonizing period of uncertainty regarding his fate and condition.

Sadly, during this ordeal, Efrat Katz was presumed to be held captive as well. However, her body was eventually found several days later. She was laid to rest by her remaining family and friends, adding to the heartbreak and tragedy of the situation.

The release of a video by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) later showed Gadi Mozes and another Israeli hostage, Elad Katzir, who had also been kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz. This video provided a glimpse of life signs but also indicated that both hostages had endured significant challenges during their captivity.