Israel Receives Coffin of Gaza Hostage from Red Cross

Israel confirmed on November 21, 2023, that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) had handed over the coffin of a hostage from Gaza. This transfer is part of ongoing efforts to identify the remains of those held by militants. The Israeli military and security services received the coffin, which is expected to undergo forensic identification before being returned to the family.

The transfer of the remains was facilitated by the ICRC, which acted as a neutral intermediary. According to the organization, this handover occurred at the request of the involved parties and with their agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office stated that the coffin would be returned to Israel for a military ceremony, followed by the identification process at the Health Ministry’s National Centre of Forensic Medicine.

As of now, the remains of three deceased hostages are still in Gaza, including two Israeli nationals and one from Thailand. Hamas and its allies have been releasing remains of hostages as part of a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States that began on October 10, 2023. Prior to this recent handover, the militants were holding 20 living hostages and 28 bodies of deceased captives.

The families of the fallen hostages have been informed of the latest developments. Netanyahu’s office expressed solidarity with them, stating, “Our hearts are with them in this difficult hour.” The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel’s efforts to secure the return of all hostages continue without pause.

A source from the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the remains belonged to one of the last three hostages held in the territory. The armed wing of Islamic Jihad stated it had located the body during search operations in central Gaza.

The ceasefire has been fragile, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violations. Israel has expressed concern over delays in the transfer of remains, characterizing it as a breach of the truce conditions. Netanyahu’s office remarked, “Israel views with severity the delay in their immediate transfer,” emphasizing the need for adherence to the agreement.

The conflict, which escalated following Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties. According to reports from the health ministry in Gaza, the Israeli retaliatory actions have claimed at least 69,775 lives. The UN considers these figures to be reliable.

The ICRC’s involvement highlights the organization’s commitment to facilitating humanitarian efforts in conflict zones. As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful of the humanitarian implications and the ongoing negotiations surrounding the hostages.