British Daughter of Gaza Hostage Finds Meaning in Farewell to Father

After the return of her father’s remains, Sharone Lifschitz expressed profound emotions about his burial, emphasizing the need for all hostage families to achieve closure in the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Sharone Lifschitz, a British-Israeli woman, expressed that burying her father, Oded Lifshitz, who died in captivity after being taken hostage by Palestinian armed groups on October 7, was "incredibly meaningful." The family held a funeral for the 83-year-old after receiving his remains last month. While both Oded and his wife, Yocheved, were taken from their home, she was released at the end of October 2023 after spending only a few weeks captive; Oded was held for over 500 days. The Israeli government has stated he was killed in captivity by the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization.

“It’s not the outcome we were hoping for,” remarked Sharone to the BBC, finding some relief in knowing her father was no longer suffering. “He died in the most horrific circumstances possible.” Attending a memorial event in London, she emphasized the importance of "being able to say goodbye" and urged for the return of all hostages, living and deceased. Sharone's emotional reflection was shared with hundreds in attendance, including prominent figures and families similarly impacted.

The first phase of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas ended on March 1, resulting in the release of living hostages alongside eight deceased ones. Meanwhile, Israel reciprocated by freeing around 1,900 prisoners from Gaza. Despite ongoing talks to extend this temporary truce, an agreement remains elusive.

The family’s anguish over Oded's suffering and eventual death highlights the urgent necessity for all families to bring their loved ones home. “It's very hard to reconcile the fact we weren't there for him,” Sharone shared, “But at least now he is back with us.” She recounted his resilience and humanity even while held captive and spoke at the memorial about her father’s legacy as a peace activist. Reflecting on the broader conflict, Sharone reiterated her commitment to peace: “Peace is where we want to be. Is the road long? Is the road hazardous? Yes. But what's the alternative?”

As the new chapters of mourning and advocacy unfold, Sharone Lifschitz remains a symbol of strength, determined to amplify the voices of families still yearning for closure amidst the ongoing tumult in the region.