Hamas Releases Remains of Three Hostages, One Identified as Omer Neutra
GAZA – Hamas on Thursday handed over the remains of three Israeli hostages, one of whom has been confirmed as 21-year-old Omer Neutra, according to Israeli officials. The bodies were transferred to Israeli authorities via the Rafah crossing into Egypt, and subsequently to Israel, following negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the recovery of the remains, stating that forensic identification positively identified neutra. The identities of the other two individuals are still being investigated. Neutra was taken hostage on October 7th during the Hamas attack on southern Israel. His family had campaigned tirelessly for his release, and he became a symbol of the hostages still held in Gaza.
This handover comes amid a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which began on november 24th and has been extended multiple times. The agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, has facilitated the release of numerous hostages held by Hamas in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
as of November 30th, Hamas has released over 100 hostages, primarily women and children, since the start of the ceasefire. Approximately 140 Israelis remain captive in Gaza.
The IDF stated it would provide further updates as the identification process for the remaining remains continues. The families of the hostages have been notified.
