Captain Omer Neutra, an American-Israeli Hostage, Declared Dead in Captivity in Gaza

On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a devastating attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of over 250 people, including American-Israeli soldier Captain Omer Maxim Neutra. Initially believed to have been taken hostage, recent confirmations from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have revealed that Neutra was killed during the assault, with his body subsequently taken into the Gaza Strip by Hamas.

A Life of Leadership and Commitment

Born on October 14, 2001, in New York City, just a month after the 9/11 attacks, Neutra was raised in Plainview, Long Island. He exhibited leadership qualities early on, serving as captain of his high school basketball, volleyball, and soccer teams. His involvement extended beyond athletics; he was an active member of the Jewish community, notably serving as the regional president of United Synagogue Youth’s Metropolitan New York chapter.

After graduating from the Solomon Schechter School of Long Island, Neutra deferred his acceptance to Binghamton University to spend a gap year in Israel. This experience deepened his connection to his heritage and led him to enlist in the IDF as a lone soldier—a term for foreign volunteers without immediate family in Israel. He rose to the rank of captain and served as a tank platoon commander in the 77th Battalion of the 7th Brigade.

The Fateful Day

On the morning of October 7, Neutra’s unit was stationed near Kibbutz Nir Oz, close to the Gaza border. Hamas militants launched a surprise attack, overwhelming Israeli defenses. Neutra’s tank crew was ambushed; their vehicle was set ablaze, and they were captured. Initial reports suggested that Neutra and his crew were taken alive into Gaza. However, subsequent intelligence and military investigations confirmed that Neutra was killed during the attack, and his body was taken by Hamas fighters.

Among Neutra’s crew were tank gunner Nimrod Cohen and driver Shaked Dahan. Cohen is currently being held in Gaza, and Dahan was killed by Hamas in captivity.

Family’s Vigil and Advocacy

In the agonizing months following the attack, Neutra’s parents, Orna and Ronen, held onto hope that their son was alive. They became vocal advocates, tirelessly campaigning for the release of all hostages held by Hamas. Their efforts included meetings with U.S. government officials (including President Biden) and participation in public rallies to raise awareness about the plight of the hostages. Orna, reflecting on the ordeal, described the experience as “almost like drowning for nine months,” emphasizing the helplessness they felt.

Since that fateful day in October of 2023, the Neutra’s have been vocal about their experiences and describe their lives as drastically changed since their son was taken from them. They have publically expressed frustration with Netanyahu’s efforts to secure the hostages’ release, questioning his sincerity and sense of urgency.

Over the recent Thanksgiving holiday, the family emphasized the ongoing struggle faced by the families of those still held in Gaza, stating, “For us, it’s no holiday. Our holiday table is empty for the second consecutive year.”

Confirmation and Mourning

On December 2, 2024, the IDF officially confirmed Neutra’s death, stating that he “fell in a heroic battle near Nir Oz on October 7.”

Despite the devastating news, the efforts of the Neutra family have helped hold attention to the plight of the remaining hostages and their families.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu honored Neutra, describing him as “a man of values, blessed with talents and a Zionist in every sense of the word.” Netanyahu highlighted Neutra’s dedication, noting that he “immigrated to Israel to enlist in the IDF, chose a combat path, and was chosen to command and lead.”

Many Hostages Remain

As of December 2024, around 97 hostages remain unaccounted for in Gaza, with at least 33 presumed dead, according to Israeli officials. Hamas is estimated to still hold 101 hostages, including four taken in 2014 and 2015. The hostages include Israeli citizens (some with dual nationality), foreign nationals like Thai and Nepalese citizens, and both military personnel and civilians. Notable cases include Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli taken from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and Shlomo Mansour, an 86-year-old Iraq-born Israeli captured from Kibbutz Kissufim. Families are enduring heartbreaking uncertainty, with some hostages, like Gadi Moses, not heard from of since late 2023. International efforts to secure their release continue, led by Qatar and supported by the Biden administration, which has renewed talks for a ceasefire and the hostages’ freedom.

A Legacy of Courage

Captain Omer Neutra’s story is one of profound dedication and bravery. Leaving the comforts of his Long Island home, he chose to serve and protect the State of Israel. His leadership qualities, evident from his youth, carried through to his military service, where he led his unit with distinction. The tragic circumstances of his death underscore the complexities and dangers faced by those defending their nation against relentless threats.

As the Neutra family and the broader community mourn this loss, Captain Neutra’s commitment serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform. His life and service exemplify the enduring bond between the United States and Israel, and his memory will undoubtedly inspire future generations to uphold the values he so dearly cherished.

Omer Neutra was 21 years old.