Israel Returns Bodies of 45 Palestinians Following Hamas Remains transfer
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Israel has handed over the bodies of 45 Palestinians to authorities, following the return of the remains of two Israeli soldiers by Hamas, officials confirmed Monday. The exchange marks a critically important, though somber, progress in ongoing efforts to resolve outstanding issues stemming from the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The transfer of remains, facilitated by Egyptian mediation, addresses a long-standing demand from Palestinian families who have sought the return of the bodies of loved ones held by Israel. For years, Israel has held onto the remains of Palestinians killed during clashes or designated as militants, citing security concerns and as leverage in negotiations for the release of Israeli citizens held in Gaza. The return of the Israeli soldiers’ remains – initially captured during the 2014 Gaza war – had been a key priority for Israel.
British Foreign Secretary David Cameron announced Monday that the increased access for aid agencies into Gaza is a positive step, stating, “We are seeing a lifting of restrictions and more agencies able to go in with aid.” Britain will also provide an additional 6 million pounds ($7.9 million) in humanitarian support for Gaza, channeled through the U.N. Population Fund.
amidst the ongoing conflict, Gaza’s health Ministry announced a campaign to vaccinate approximately 40,000 Palestinian children under 3 years old against preventable diseases, including measles, polio, and meningitis, beginning next week. The initiative will prioritize children who have missed routine vaccinations or received incomplete doses due to the war, according to Dr. Nedal Ghoneim, the Health Ministry’s public health manager.
The exchange occurs against the backdrop of a devastating conflict that began with the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel two years ago, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military offensive in Gaza has, according to the Gaza health Ministry, killed over 68,800 Palestinians. The ministry’s figures, while generally considered reliable by independent experts, do not differentiate between civilians and combatants. Israel disputes the ministry’s figures but has not provided an alternative toll, and denies accusations of genocide leveled by a U.N. commission of inquiry and others.