Red Cross Assists in Recovery of Israeli Hostage Bodies Amidst Ceasefire, as Families Call for Action
In the aftermath of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has accompanied Hamas in the search for the remains of Israeli hostages within areas of Gaza still under Israeli military control. This comes amidst calls from the hostages' families for a pause in the ceasefire until all bodies are returned, and as a 48-hour deadline set by President Donald Trump looms over Hamas. Despite these developments, twelve bodies of hostages have yet to be returned to Israel.
Background and Context
Under the terms of the ceasefire, which took effect on 10 October, Hamas is required to return the remains of all Israeli hostages as soon as possible. In exchange, Israel has agreed to hand over 15 Palestinian bodies for each Israeli. Despite this agreement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged Israel, the U.S., and mediators not to proceed to the second stage of the agreement until the remains of the last 13 deceased captives are released.
Key Developments
Hamas has shared information about the location of the hostages' bodies with Egyptian rescuers. However, a spokesman for the group stated that the only obstacle for the evacuation of the bodies of hostages from under the rubble is the lack of special vehicles and mechanism.
In addition, Hamas has announced plans to return the body of a 16th hostage, as President Trump's 48-hour deadline nears. If this body is handed over, Hamas will still have the bodies of 12 Israeli hostages in its custody. The identity of the deceased hostage set to be released has not been disclosed.
Implications and Reactions
The hostages' families, supported by Israeli officials and associations representing them, have demanded that Hamas act with more haste in returning the remains. The situation has sparked widespread international attention, with President Trump stating on a Truth Social post that some of the bodies are hard to reach, but others they can return now and, for some reason, they are not.
Current Status
As of now, the body of a 16th hostage has been handed over to the Israeli army. The location of the remaining 12 deceased hostages is still unknown, with Hamas arguing that it faces difficulties in locating the bodies amidst a field of ruins. The Red Cross, Hamas, and an Egyptian team have received permission from Israeli authorities to continue their search for the bodies in the Gaza Strip.
In the meantime, the world waits to see how this situation will unfold as the deadline set by President Trump approaches. The return of all deceased hostages remains a critical issue, with global leaders, the hostages' families, and the international community closely monitoring the progress.