Last-Minute Push for Hostage Release as Ceasefire Agreement Details Emerge
Gaza City – As the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas nears its conclusion, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed the return of all remaining hostages, even as concerns mount over the fate of those already deceased. The commitment comes amid details emerging about a joint task force established under the ceasefire agreement to locate the remains of hostages killed in the October 7th attacks and prior conflicts.
Currently, 47 hostages kidnapped during the October 7, 2023 attacks remain in Gaza, with at least 20 believed to be alive. The remains of another hostage, Israel Defense Forces soldier Hadar Goldin, who died in 2014, have not been recovered and remain in Gaza. CNN previously reported that the Israeli government has been aware for months that Hamas may not know the location, or be able to recover, the remains of some of the 28 deceased hostages. This situation underscores the urgency of the ongoing negotiations and the critical role of the newly formed task force.
Netanyahu stated he has kept his promise to the families of the 48 hostages, declaring, “We will not surrender to anyone.” He further asserted,”And,in fact,all the hostages will return to us. In the next few days, God willing, we will bring them all.” He also pledged to bring the deceased hostages back to Israel for burial,stating,”We will work to locate them all as soon as possible,and we will fulfill this as a sacred duty of mutual duty.”
The ceasefire agreement stipulates the joint task force will include representatives from Israel, the United states, Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye, working collaboratively to locate and repatriate the remains of those who died in captivity. The success of this task force will be a key indicator of the long-term impact of the ceasefire and the possibility of a more lasting resolution to the conflict.
