Israel Identifies Bodies of Two Hostages as Gaza Crossing Remains Closed
GAZA STRIP – Israeli authorities announced sunday the identification of the bodies of two hostages recovered from the Gaza Strip, as the Rafah crossing remained closed amid ongoing tensions and negotiations for a lasting ceasefire. The identities were withheld pending notification of families. The recovery marks a grim advancement in the conflict, highlighting the continued plight of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7th attacks.
The identification comes as efforts to establish a post-war governance structure for Gaza continue. Former President Donald Trump has proposed a plan involving the disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of an internationally backed authority to administer the territory. Though, Hamas official Ghazi Kassem reiterated Sunday that the group will not participate in any post-war ruling authority, while maintaining that Hamas-run government bodies are currently operating to prevent a power vacuum. Kassem called for the swift formation of a “Community Support Committee” comprised of Palestinian technocrats to manage daily affairs until a broader administrative committee is agreed upon by all Palestinian factions.
Simultaneously occurring, Hamas has rejected U.S. State Department claims of a planned attack against Palestinian civilians in Gaza, labeling the allegations as “false.” Hamas accused Israel of supporting armed groups operating in Israeli-controlled areas and urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to cease its support. The denial followed clashes between Hamas-led fighters and at least two armed groups in eastern Gaza City, which Hamas alleges were involved in looting aid and collaborating with Israel. Several suspects were publicly executed by Hamas forces, actions widely condemned internationally.
The Hamas-run Interior Ministry stated its forces are working to restore law and order in areas from which Israeli military forces have withdrawn following the ceasefire. The Rafah crossing, a critical entry point for humanitarian aid, remains closed, exacerbating the already dire conditions for civilians in Gaza.
