Hamas hands over bodies of four hostages to Israel under truce deal

Hamas has returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages who died in captivity, marking the first such transfer since the war began on October 7, 2023. The handover occurred under the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Among the deceased were Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Kfir and Ariel, whose abduction had become a symbol of Israel’s ongoing crisis. The fourth body belonged to 83-year-old Oded Lifshitz. The exchange took place in Khan Younis, Gaza, where Hamas publicly displayed the black coffins before handing them over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). White mock missiles, labeled "They were killed by USA bombs," were placed near the caskets.

Israel Confirms Receipt of Hostages’ Bodies

The Israeli military confirmed the transfer, stating that the bodies were received by representatives of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel’s Security Agency (ISA). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office also acknowledged the return of the remains.

Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange

The transfer is part of the first six-week phase of a ceasefire that took effect on January 19, aiming to bring an end to over 15 months of war in Gaza, which has resulted in over 48,000 deaths and widespread displacement.

As part of the truce, Hamas has so far released 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. Israel has reported that of the remaining 14 hostages expected to be released under the agreement, eight have died.

Background on Hostage Crisis

Hamas and allied militant groups took 251 people hostage during the October 7 attack, which left 1,211 dead, according to AFP. Prior to today’s handover, Israel estimated that 70 hostages were still in Gaza, including 35 who are presumed dead.