IDF Returns Remains of Last Missing Soldier from 1979 Sultan Yaakov Battle

The Israel Defense Forces officially confirmed on Tuesday the return of the remains of Staff Sergeant Yehuda Yekutiel Katz, who fell in the Battle of Sultan Yaakov approximately 44 years ago. The operation was led by Military Intelligence (AMAN) in coordination with the Mossad. After the remains were brought to Israel, identification was conducted at the Military Rabbinate’s casualty identification center, with assistance from the Medical Corps and the Israel Police. Katz’s family had been regularly updated over the years about ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate him. Unfortunately, his parents, Sarah and Yosef Katz, passed away before receiving the news.

The IDF described the recovery as "closing a circle," marking the completion of returning all missing soldiers from the Sultan Yaakov battle. Previous returns included Staff Sergeants Zecharia Baumel in 2019 and Tzvika Feldman in 2025. Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir called the event a significant moment for the IDF and Israel, emphasizing the enduring commitment to never leave soldiers behind. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the long-standing secret operations authorized to find the missing soldiers and expressed solidarity with Katz’s surviving siblings, acknowledging the parents’ lifelong efforts and mourning their passing. Netanyahu also thanked the IDF, Mossad, Shin Bet, and the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories for their roles in the mission.