Fallen Soldier Ran Guili, Kidnapped on Oct. 7, Returned Home After 843 Days
Translated & summarized from 0404 by baba
Ran Guili, a 24-year-old injured fighter, died combating terrorists on October 7, 2023, near Alumim, with his body subsequently held in Gaza. After 843 days, his remains were returned to Israel on January 26, 2026, making him the last Oct. 7 victim recovered. His decision to fight despite his injury became a symbol of sacrifice. Guili was buried in Meitar on January 28, 2026.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Fighter Ran Guili, injured and on sick leave, died fighting terrorists on October 7, 2023.
- His body was held in Gaza for 843 days before being returned to Israel on January 26, 2026.
- Guili left his home in Meitar despite a shoulder injury to join his unit in combat.
- He became known as the 'Shield of Alumim' for his actions during the battle.
- His return marked the recovery of the last kidnapped victim from the October 7th massacre.
- Ran Guili was buried in Meitar on January 28, 2026, after a long period of uncertainty.
Ran Guili, a 24-year-old fighter with the Negev Border Police, who was injured and on sick leave, died on October 7, 2023, while fighting terrorists near Alumim. His body was subsequently held in Gaza for 843 days before being returned to Israel on January 26, 2026, making him the last kidnapped victim from that day to be recovered.
On the morning of October 7, 2023, as Hamas terrorists infiltrated southern Israel, Guili, who was recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in a car accident and awaiting surgery, heard that his unit was being deployed. Despite his medical condition, he donned his uniform, took his weapon, and left his home in Meitar to join the fight.
Guili joined the chaotic efforts to repel attackers and assist civilians in the Gaza envelope, including the area around Re'im, where many young people were fleeing a music festival. He then proceeded to the Alumim kibbutz area, where a fierce battle was underway. Despite his injured shoulder, he fought alongside his comrades against heavily armed terrorists in close-quarters combat.
Guili was shot in the legs around 10:50 AM and lost contact shortly after. His fate remained unknown for an extended period. His family, friends, and unit members endured over two years of uncertainty while advocating for his return.
His story, particularly his decision to fight despite his injury, became a symbol of devotion and sacrifice for many Israelis. The phrase "first to go out, last to return" became associated with him, reflecting his early departure to the front lines and the long wait for his body's recovery.
Ran Guili was buried in Meitar on January 28, 2026, with thousands attending the funeral. For his family, his return provided a measure of closure, allowing them to finally bury their son and brother. His story continues to be remembered as one of courage and selflessness from the October 7th massacre.