A Life Dedicated to Peace Ends in Horror: The Farewell to Oded Lifshitz

In a somber gathering at Kibbutz Nir Oz, family, friends, and community members came together to honor the life of Oded Lifshitz, an 83-year-old peace activist and founding member of the kibbutz. Oded was abducted from his home during the attack of October 7, 2023, and, as recently confirmed, was tragically murdered in captivity by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Oded and his wife, Yocheved, were well-known for their commitment to fostering peace and understanding. For years, they dedicated themselves to peace efforts, including transporting patients from Gaza to Israeli hospitals.

During the eulogies, Yocheved, who was released from captivity two weeks after their abduction, expressed profound sorrow and a sense of betrayal. Reflecting on their decades-long dedication to aiding others, she lamented, “We fought for peace and were attacked by those we helped.”

President Isaac Herzog also paid tribute to Oded, highlighting his multifaceted life as a pioneer, journalist, and humanist. Herzog described him as “a man who loved peace and pursued peace,” emphasizing the tragedy of his murder by those consumed with hatred.

The funeral procession, which journeyed from Rishon Lezion to Kibbutz Nir Oz, was marked by public displays of respect and mourning. Individuals lined the route, holding Israeli flags and signs expressing solidarity and sorrow. This collective outpouring of grief reflects the deep impact Oded had on those who knew him and the broader community.