April 27, 2025 — New York, NY
Ruby and Hagit Chen, parents of 19-year-old American-Israeli hostage Itay Chen, delivered an emotional address at AJC Global Forum, honoring their son’s courage and calling for justice.
Based on intelligence reports, the IDF informed Itay Chen’s family that he was killed on October 7 near the Gaza border. Itay is the youngest American held by Hamas in Gaza. A proud American and Israeli, Itay grew up in Netanya, loved basketball and video games, and was the “life of the party,” his father said.
The Chens' powerful tribute reminded the audience of the human cost of terror—and the continued need for advocacy, remembrance, and the return of all hostages. AJC stands with the Chen family and all those still waiting for answers and justice.
To watch more videos from AJC Global Forum 2025, go to AJC.org/GlobalForumNews2025.
