Overview

• Thousands attended the military funeral in Jerusalem on October 15, where President Isaac Herzog delivered a eulogy honoring Perez’s service.
• Perez’s remains were returned to Israel on Monday as part of a hostage exchange after Hamas held his body since October 7, 2023.
• Newly freed hostage Matan Angrest left his hospital bed to eulogize his former commander at the ceremony.
• The IDF announced in March 2024 that Perez had been killed and that Hamas was holding his body, prompting a symbolic burial of his blood-stained clothing at the time.
• Rabbi Doron Perez welcomed his son’s burial yet said an agreement guaranteed the return of all 28, urging the immediate return of those still withheld, including the body of Itay Chen.