Body of hostage Ilan Weiss recovered after 692 days in hands of Hamas

Weiss' body was recovered by a joint IDF and Shin Bet operation in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Together with all the citizens of Israel, my wife and I send our heartfelt condolences to the dear families and share in their deep sorrow.

"The campaign to bring back the hostages continues without pause. We will not rest and we will not be silent until we return all our hostages home, both the living and the fallen."

Two of Weiss' daughters managed to hide on October 7, evading capture. However his other daughter, Noga, and his wife, Shiri, were abducted. Terrorists also killed the family dog.

Noga and Shiri were released a month later during a short ceasefire.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said: "I offer my heartfelt condolences and support to the Weiss family and the community of Kibbutz Be’eri upon the recovery of the body of hostage Ilan Weiss, of blessed memory.

"692 days after he was brutally kidnapped with his wife Shiri and their daughter Noga, Ilan’s body was recovered in a joint IDF and Shin Bet operation. A moment of deep sorrow, but also of closure.

"Ilan showed courage and noble spirit when he fought the terrorists on that dark day. In his death, he gave life. And ever since, his family has shown extraordinary strength in their struggle for his return."

Herzog went on to express how Israel will seek to get every last hostage home, to give them the "dignity" they deserve.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said: "I wish to express profound appreciation to our heroic fighters who risk their lives day and night to return all the hostages — the living and the fallen alike."

The IDF has called Weiss’ recovery a “blessing”.

The remains of another hostage were also discovered with Weiss, although the identity of the person has not yet been confirmed.