Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Holds as Two More Hostage Remains Returned

Hamas has handed over the remains of two more hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza. The Israeli military confirmed the transfer on Tuesday. This development occurs during a fragile ceasefire.

The process is part of a broader truce agreement that began on October 10. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, visiting Israel, urged patience with the delicate process.

Ceasefire Progress and Remains Exchange

Since the truce started, the remains of 13 hostages have been returned to Israel. After this latest handover, 13 more sets of remains still need recovery. This is a slow and difficult task.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel is releasing 15 Palestinian bodies for each dead hostage returned. This exchange is a key part of the current agreement. The total number of Palestinian bodies transferred has reached 165.

Humanitarian Efforts and Market Instability

International aid groups are scaling up their operations in Gaza. The World Food Program has sent over 530 trucks of aid in ten days. This is enough to feed nearly half a million people.

However, Gaza’s financial system remains in tatters. Banks are largely inoperable, forcing people to use cash brokers. Hamas security forces have also cracked down on merchants for price gouging on essential goods.

The return of these remains marks a somber but critical step in the ceasefire process. Both sides continue to navigate a path toward lasting security and humanitarian relief for civilians caught in the conflict.

Info at your fingertips

How many hostage remains have been returned so far?

The remains of 13 hostages have been returned to Israel since the ceasefire began. This includes the two most recent recoveries confirmed by the Israeli military.

What is the exchange rate for the remains?

Israel is releasing 15 Palestinian bodies for the remains of each dead hostage. This is according to reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Is humanitarian aid entering Gaza?

Yes, aid is increasing. The World Food Program has sent more than 530 trucks into Gaza recently. This is still below pre-war levels of 500-600 trucks per day.

What did U.S. Vice President JD Vance say about the process?

Vance urged “a little bit of patience” with the pace of returns. He noted the immense difficulty of recovering bodies from under rubble.

Are there U.S. troops on the ground in Gaza?

No. Vice President Vance emphasized that U.S. troops sent to Israel will not be deployed inside Gaza. An international security force for the territory is being conceptualized.