Hamas Returns Four Israeli Bodies After Final Hostage release
KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza – following the completion of a hostage release deal, Hamas transferred the remains of four Israeli citizens to the Israeli army on October 13, 2025. The handover concluded a series of exchanges that saw the return of all living hostages held in Gaza, marking a significant, though somber, advancement in the ongoing conflict.
The return of the bodies brings a degree of closure to families who have endured months of uncertainty since the initial October 7, 2023, attacks. While the release of living hostages was celebrated across Israel, the confirmation of the deaths of these four individuals adds to the profound grief stemming from the conflict. The exchange occurred as part of a mediated agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, aimed at securing the release of all hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
The Israeli army confirmed the identities of the deceased after receiving the remains, stating they would be returned to their families for burial. Details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths remain under investigation. The completion of the hostage release is expected to influence the next phase of the conflict, with Israel facing increasing international pressure to scale back military operations in Gaza.
This exchange follows the release of 105 hostages-81 Israelis,23 foreign nationals,and one dual citizen-over the past several days. In return, Israel released 240 Palestinian prisoners, primarily women and minors, from its prisons. The agreement included a four-day ceasefire, which began on November 24, 2023, allowing for the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
MAHMOUD ISSA / REUTERS
