Asaf Hamami
Gender: Male
Age when taken: 40
Citizenship: Israel
Occupation: IDF Colonel, Commander in the Southern Brigade
Hostage status: Confirmed deceased and returned to Israel on November 3rd, 2025, during the Israel-Hamas ceasefire
More about Asaf:
Commander of the southern division in Gaza, which is considered the most difficult and challenging
Survived by his wife Sapir and their three children
Death confirmed on his birthday, December 2nd, 2023
Described as funny and witty, always wanting to be first
Served in the IDF for 22 years
Was fighting alongside Tomer Yaakov Achimas and Kiril Brodski
In 2010 he received the Distinguished Service Medal from then-IDF chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi
Primary Sources:
Times of Israel, Remains of deceased hostages Asaf Hamami, Omer Neutra and Oz Daniel returned to Israel, Nov 03, 2025
Times of Israel, Col. Asaf Hamami, 41: Witty commander 'did not hesitate for a moment', Dec 04, 2023
Ynet, Farewell to a hero of Israel: He kissed his son and went out to battle; 'This is commander, declaring war', Dec 03, 2023
Jerusalem Post, Commander in Southern Division was killed on Oct. 7, body taken to Gaza, Dec 02, 2023
Times Now, Abducted, Killed, Body Withheld in Gaza | Who Is Israeli Military's Top Commander Killed By Hamas?, Dec 06, 2023
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Swords of Iron: IDF Casualties, Mar 31, 2024
Secondary Sources:
Date Last Updated: November 3rd, 2025