Returned Remains Spark Israeli Anger, Threaten Ceasefire

Forensic identification confirmed remains handed over by Hamas overnight were those of Ofir Tzarfati, a body the IDF says it recovered in Gaza nearly two years ago, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the return a “clear violation” of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The confirmation means roughly 13 deceased hostages are still believed to be in Gaza and has prompted Israeli leaders and families to press to halt or reverse parts of the agreement; Netanyahu convened defence chiefs to weigh responses. Reported options under consideration include expanding Israeli operations inside Gaza or reoccupying territory, while U.S. officials oppose retaliatory steps such as restricting humanitarian aid. IDF sources say footage suggests Hamas staged the discovery, but Hamas says widespread destruction and lack of equipment hinder locating and identifying remains; Egypt and the Red Cross have sent heavy machinery and teams to assist excavations. Separately, Israeli forces killed three militants near Jenin and Gaza civil defence warns thousands remain missing under the rubble, heightening pressure for faster returns and risking further escalation that could undermine the fragile ceasefire.