israel Confirms Returned Remains Not of Hostages Held in gaza
JERUSALEM – Israeli officials stated today that remains recently returned by Hamas are not those of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza, according to a statement released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The bodies were identified following forensic examination.
The return of remains, even those not of hostages, underscores the ongoing and intensely sensitive negotiations surrounding the release of captives taken during the October 7th Hamas-led attack that triggered the current conflict. over 251 individuals were taken hostage during the initial assault, and approximately 136 remain in Gaza, according to israeli estimates. The fate of these hostages remains a central concern for Israel and a key factor in ongoing ceasefire talks.
Indonesia has expressed willingness to contribute to a potential multinational peacekeeping force in Gaza, but stressed the need for a clear mandate from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). “There has to be a mandate from the UNSC, which we hope will be issued. There has been no discussions so far,and we’re far from settling any details,” Indonesian Foreign Minister sugiono said earlier this week.Indonesian officials have also reiterated their support for an autonomous Palestinian state, while emphasizing the importance of ensuring Israel’s security.
The conflict, now entering its eighth month, began with the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel. israel’s subsequent military offensive in Gaza has killed more than 68,600 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry’s figures,while generally considered reliable by independent experts,do not differentiate between combatants and civilians. Israel disputes the ministry’s numbers but has not provided an alternative toll.