Israel Says One Body Returned by Hamas Not a Hostage

The Israeli military has made a serious allegation against Hamas. It says one of the bodies returned during the recent ceasefire is not that of a hostage. This discovery was made on Wednesday after forensic tests were conducted.

This incident threatens the fragile truce brokered by the United States. According to Reuters, it is not the first time such a mix-up has occurred, creating more anguish for families awaiting the return of their loved ones.

Forensic Examination Reveals Discrepancy

Hamas handed over four bodies on Tuesday. This was part of the ongoing ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. Israeli medical officials then conducted overnight forensic tests.

Their conclusion was stark. One of the bodies did not match any of the known hostages. The Israeli military immediately issued a statement demanding Hamas fulfill its obligations. They warned the group must make all necessary efforts to return the correct deceased hostages.

Ceasefire Deal Faces New Complications

This development introduces a new point of tension. The US-proposed ceasefire plan required all hostages to be handed over by a Monday deadline. While the last living hostages were freed, the process for returning the deceased has been slower and now disputed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken a firm stance. He stated Israel will not compromise on the return of all hostages, both living and deceased. He vowed to continue efforts until the last one is brought home. This claim from Israel complicates the next phases of the delicate agreement.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Kassem responded on Telegram. He said the group is working to return the bodies as agreed. He also accused Israel of violating the ceasefire with military activity in Gaza. The situation remains fluid and highly sensitive for all parties involved.

The dispute over the returned body represents a significant test for the ceasefire’s durability. Ensuring the swift and correct return of all remaining hostages is critical for maintaining trust. The path forward depends on both sides adhering strictly to the agreed terms.

Info at your fingertips

What did the Israeli military claim about the returned bodies?

The Israeli military stated that one of four bodies returned by Hamas did not belong to a hostage. Forensic tests conducted overnight confirmed the discrepancy. This has led to new demands for Hamas to return the correct remains.

How many hostages were involved in this ceasefire deal?

The deal involved the return of the last 20 living hostages, which happened on Monday. Israel was also awaiting the bodies of 28 deceased hostages. The process for returning the deceased has been slower and is now under dispute.

Has this happened before with Hamas returning wrong bodies?

Yes, a similar incident occurred during a previous ceasefire. Hamas initially returned a body identified as a Palestinian woman instead of hostage Shiri Bibas. Bibas’s body was correctly identified and returned a day later.

What has been the Israeli government’s response?

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israel will not compromise on the return of all hostages. He emphasized that efforts will continue until every last deceased hostage is returned to Israel.

How has Hamas responded to the allegation?

A Hamas spokesperson said the group is working to return the bodies as agreed. They also accused Israel of violating the ceasefire deal with shootings in eastern Gaza City and Rafah.