US-Israeli citizen who was kidnapped on Oct. 7 confirmed dead, IDF says

The IDF said Sergeant Itay Chen, 19, a U.S.-Israeli citizen, has been confirmed dead after being taken hostage on Oct. 7 by Hamas militants.

"We share in the profound grief of the Chen family. Itay Chen (19) was always surrounded by friends. A beloved individual who drew others to him with his warm presence. Itay loved the land, going on hikes, and was a senior instructor in youth movements - a salt of the earth person," a statement in his memory read.  Yonat Friling is a senior field producer for Fox News Media based in the Jerusalem Bureau. 

"Itay was very attached to Gucci, the family's pet dog," the statement continued. "He played basketball greatly enjoyed sports, good food, and listening to music. Itay was the middle child of three siblings. He had been in a relationship for over a year with Neta, whom he called the love of his life." 

As of Monday, there are 134 hostages who remain held in Gaza, and 34 of them are considered dead.