Israel Pushes to Recover Last Two Hostages as Ceasefire Deal Concludes

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken with the family of the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza. The conversation occurred on Friday, according to his office. He affirmed his commitment to securing the return of Ran Gvili’s body.

Gvili, a 24-year-old elite police officer, was killed during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. His body was taken into the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu assured Gvili’s parents of his determination to bring their son home for a proper burial.

Details of the Final Hostage Situation

The Prime Minister also updated Thailand’s ambassador to Israel on ongoing efforts. The focus is on recovering the body of Sudthisak Rinthalak, a Thai national. Rinthalak was one of several laborers killed in the same October 7 attack.

His death was confirmed by Israeli authorities in May 2024. He is the only other slain hostage still held in Gaza. According to Reuters, a US-sponsored ceasefire agreement that began on October 10 required Hamas to return all 48 hostages it held.

Broader Impact and Public Response

Hamas has so far returned 46 individuals. This includes the body of a soldier abducted over a decade ago. The return of the final two bodies remains a significant point of contention and national focus in Israel.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum is maintaining public pressure. The group organized another rally in Tel Aviv to demand the government secure the return of the remaining bodies. This highlights the ongoing emotional and political weight of the issue for Israeli society.

The completion of the hostage return process is a critical final step. Israel’s government faces intense domestic pressure to ensure its success. The recovery of the last two hostages remains a top priority.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is the last Israeli hostage in Gaza?

The last Israeli hostage is Ran Gvili. He was an officer in Israel’s Yasam police unit. Gvili was killed on October 7, 2023, and his body is still in Gaza.

Are there any other hostages still held?

Yes, one other hostage remains. He is Sudthisak Rinthalak, a Thai national. His body is also still held in Gaza.

How many hostages has Hamas returned so far?

Hamas has returned 46 hostages so far. This was part of a US-sponsored ceasefire deal. The deal required the return of all 48 hostages originally held.

What is the Israeli government doing about it?

Prime Minister Netanyahu is directly involved. He is communicating with the families and foreign diplomats. His office states extensive efforts are ongoing to secure the returns.

Why is the return of bodies important?

It allows for proper burial rites and provides closure for families. In Israel, the return of all soldiers and citizens is a deeply held national value. It is a matter of immense public significance.