The Israeli military has confirmed receiving a body that Hamas claims belongs to a hostage. The body was transported via the Red Cross to Israeli forces operating in Gaza and is currently en route to Israel for official identification.
This development occurs as the initial phase of a US-brokered ceasefire, which began on October 10th, has seen the exchange of 20 living hostages and the remains of 12 deceased hostages by Hamas. In return, Israel has released 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,718 detainees, alongside the bodies of 15 Palestinians. The agreement also includes provisions for increased humanitarian aid into Gaza and a temporary cessation of hostilities.
However, the ceasefire faced significant strain on Sunday, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of breaches. Israel reported striking numerous Hamas targets in Gaza following an attack that claimed the lives of two Israeli soldiers in Rafah. Hamas denied any clashes in the area, which is under Israeli control. Local hospitals reported that at least 45 Palestinians were killed in these Israeli strikes.
In response to the escalating situation, Israel stated its intention to resume ceasefire enforcement, emphasizing a firm response to any violations. Hamas, meanwhile, reiterated its commitment to the agreement.
The current conflict began following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7th, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths in southern Israel and the abduction of 251 hostages. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that at least 68,216 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli military actions since the conflict started, figures that are considered reliable by the United Nations.