26/01/2026
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Ran Gvili, the last hostage, is brought home after 843 days 💔
Ran Gvili, the last hostage in Gaza, has been brought home.
First to enter. Last to return.
Staff Sergeant Ran (Rani) Gvili from Meitar was a YASSAM Negev fighter in the Southern District of the Israel Police. Ran took great pride in being a police officer and wearing the blue uniform.
On the morning of the Black Saturday, Ran was at home recovering from a motorcycle accident and suffering from a fractured shoulder. Upon learning of the terrorist infiltration, he immediately put on his uniform and went out to assist his fellow unit members in the fighting. On his way, he encountered terrorists and fought with courage and determination on the front line at the entrance to Kibbutz Alumim. Members of the kibbutz community later gave him the name “Ran, the Defender of Alumim.”
After several months, assessments concluded that following a fierce battle, and only after his ammunition had run out, Ran fell in combat and was abducted to Gaza.
Ran, with his broad shoulders and radiant smile, was all heart. A true friend, loved by everyone. He loved life, was a young man of deep values, always spoke at eye level, and carried a powerful yet calm presence. At 24 years old at the time of his death, Ran is survived by his parents, Talik and Itzik, his brother Omri, his sister Shira, and an extended family.
Ran Gvili was the last hostage.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum bows its head in sorrow and shares in the profound grief of the Gvili family.
There are no words to express the depth of this pain.
