American-Israeli Soldier Confirmed Dead After Hamas Attack
Itay Chen, an American-Israeli soldier who went missing during a Hamas attack on October 7, has been confirmed dead by the Israeli military. His family had tirelessly worked to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, hoping that he was among them.
Israeli officials have stated that Chen’s body was taken to Gaza by Hamas militants after he was killed during the attack. Efforts by the Biden administration to secure a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas have stalled, with Hamas refusing to sign on to a truce. According to White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan, five Americans remain hostages in Gaza.
President Biden offered his condolences to Chen’s family, expressing that his heart was heavy upon hearing the news. Chen was born and raised in New York City before moving to Israel with his family. In December, Chen’s family met with Biden at the White House to seek support for the return of their son and other hostages.
Chen’s parents have thanked the Biden administration, U.S. members of Congress, and the American people for their support and prayers. They have urged both Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Biden to do everything in their power to bring Chen and the other hostages back home. The tragic loss of Chen highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the plight of those held captive in Gaza.
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