The father of an Israeli-American believed to have been murdered by Hamas continues to cling to hope for his son’s return. Ruby Chen, the father of 19-year-old Itay Chen, expressed his desire for “a miracle,” despite the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informing the family that their son is among those presumed dead. While the IDF has acknowledged Itay’s death, they have not provided definitive proof, leaving his family in a state of uncertainty.
Ruby Chen shared his thoughts with CNN, stating, “The knowledge of the IDF that indeed he was killed, we do not have that physical evidence. That’s missing.” As the family awaits the anticipated handover of hostages on March 4, 2024, Ruby expressed a flicker of hope that they might receive surprising news regarding Itay’s fate.
Itay Chen is among 48 hostages expected to be released as part of a prisoner exchange brokered by President Trump between Israel and Hamas. This exchange is to include 20 living hostages. Since receiving the tragic news on March 2, 2024, that their son was thought to be dead, the Chen family has endured profound anxiety and suspense.
Identified by the IDF as a member of the Armored Brigade’s 75th Battalion, Itay was reportedly killed near the Gaza border. Ruby Chen described the emotional turmoil faced by families of the 25 other hostages presumed dead, as well as two whose status remains unknown. He articulated the mixed emotions surrounding the upcoming exchange, saying, “On one hand, excitement for those that will be able to hug their loved ones. Anticipation that finally this chapter of the people of Israel that began two years ago will finally come to an end.”
Yet, he also expressed deep concern for the families who may not be reunited with their loved ones, indicating that the exchange brings both hope and dread.
The National Institute of Forensic Medicine has prepared to utilize advanced technology, including fingerprints, dental matching, and DNA extraction, to identify any bodies released during this exchange. Confirming identities could take several days, and families are expected to receive updates directly from the Israeli Health Ministry.
During a previous hostage exchange, Hamas mistakenly delivered the body of an unidentified Palestinian woman instead of that of slain mother Shiri Bibas, resulting in global outrage and jeopardizing a fragile cease-fire agreement. The sensitivity surrounding these exchanges underscores the emotional stakes for families like the Chens, as they navigate the profound uncertainties of their loved ones’ fates.
