Father of slain Israeli captive says prayers for son ‘went to the other hostages in Gaza’

Eli Shtivi said he began putting on tefillin after October 7, praying daily for his son’s safe return.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Mourners filled the cemetery in Kfar Ma’as on Monday afternoon for the funeral of Idan Shtivi, one of the victims of the October 7 attack.

His body was seized by Hamas terrorists and taken into Gaza, where it remained until a recent recovery operation carried out by the IDF and Shin Bet.

The funeral procession began in Rishon Lezion, with large numbers of Israelis gathering along the route to pay tribute.

Later in the day, Ilan Weiss, whose body was recovered at the same time, was also laid to rest.

Shtivi’s mother, Dalit Oron, delivered a moving farewell. She recalled the birthday greeting he sent her just 10 days before his abduction and how his body was returned to Israel on her birthday nearly two years later.

“That is the divine connection between us, a mother and son,” she said. Speaking through tears, she described her grief as “the pain of a missing limb,” recalling the daily rituals she shared with him — their conversations, his favorite meals, and the songs he loved.

“He always saw others and cared for the weak. So sensitive and loving,” she said. Oron noted that her son had found happiness in his studies at Reichman University and in his personal life. “Thank you for giving me 28 years of love and development. And sorry, my love, sorry that I couldn’t protect you this time.”

His father, Eli, praised his courage and devotion. “My Idan, you were the strongest man in Israel, a powerful and brave man. You fought terrorists and gave your life to save others, even when they shot you in the back. What is more holy than saving Jewish lives — in fire and water?” he said.

Eli also shared his personal struggle with prayer. He explained how he began putting on tefillin after October 7, praying daily for his son’s safe return. “Did my prayers go to waste? They did not. All my prayers went to the other hostages in Gaza, for them all to come home soon,” he said.