Itay Chen

Itay Chen, a 19-year-old dual US-Israeli citizen, was serving on active duty as part of a tank unit at the Nahal Oz army base on Saturday, October 7. On that fateful day, Hamas terrorists launched a brutal assault on Gaza border communities, including the area where Itay was stationed. The last contact with Itay was at 6:40 a.m. during the height of the attack.

Following the devastating events of that day, where Hamas overran Israeli army bases and communities, resulting in the deaths of 1,300 people and the kidnapping of over 200 individuals, Itay Chen was declared missing in action. He has not been identified in the field, in any hospital, nor has his fate been confirmed, strongly suggesting that he may be held hostage in Gaza.

One week after Itay's disappearance, his younger brother, Alon, celebrated his bar mitzvah in a small ceremony in Netanya. Thousands of local residents came out to show their support for the family, joining Itay's parents, US-born Ruby and Hagit, in praying for any news about their missing son.

Ruby Chen, Itay's father, shared that the last communication he had with his "wonderful" son was during the heavy bombardment of his base on that tragic Saturday. The family had been looking forward to Itay returning home for his younger brother's bar mitzvah.

Itay Chen's interests include a passion for basketball, particularly the Los Angeles Lakers, and a self-described passion for graphic and motion design.