Israel Receives Remains of 3 Hostages from Gaza Amid Ongoing Ceasefire Tensions

Since a US-mediated ceasefire took effect on October 10, Hamas has returned the remains of 17 hostages to Israel, with three more bodies handed over recently through the Red Cross, bringing the total returned to 20. These remains are undergoing forensic examination by Israel's National Institute of Forensic Medicine, with families being informed prior to any public announcement. Hamas attributes delays in returning all bodies to the difficult conditions caused by widespread destruction and the presence of Israeli military forces in Gaza, while Israel has urged a faster pace for the return of all hostages. The fragile ceasefire has allowed some calm and humanitarian aid but has been punctuated by accusations from both sides of violations and continued violence. Israel has also been releasing Palestinian bodies in exchange, though identification remains challenging due to limited resources and the conflict's devastation. Families on both sides have expressed deep emotions over the hostages and remains, continuing to rally amid calls for restraint and peace.