US President Joe Biden expressed his sorrow upon learning of the death of Israeli-American hostage Sgt. Itay Chen, 19, during Hamas’s terror attack on October 7.
Biden recounted a meeting with Itay’s father and brother at the White House in December, where they shared their anguish and uncertainty over Itay’s fate. He emphasized the pain no family should endure and recalled receiving a menorah from them as a symbol of hope amidst darkness.
Acknowledging the grief of Itay’s family, Biden reiterated his commitment to supporting all families with loved ones still held hostage, pledging unwavering efforts to secure their release.
Itay Chen, a soldier serving near the Gaza border, was initially believed to have been captured by Hamas. His death was confirmed by the Military Rabbinate based on new intelligence. Chen served in the 7th Armored Brigade’s 75th Battalion, and his body was recovered following a battle with terrorists during the Hamas attack.
The Chen family will delay holding a funeral or sitting shiva until Itay’s body is returned from Gaza. It is estimated that there are still five American hostages among the 134 individuals abducted in Gaza.
