Israel Identifies Deceased Hostages Amid National Mourning

Israel has confirmed the identities of four deceased hostages, including 83-year-old peace activist Oded Lifshitz and a mother with her two young children, whose remains were released by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep sorrow over the news, describing the day of their return as a profoundly difficult one for the nation. The bodies were handed over to the Red Cross following a ceasefire that began on January 19, and a military ceremony was held in their honor in Israel. Lifshitz, reportedly murdered while in captivity, had previously been claimed by Islamic Jihad to have died in an Israeli strike. The identification of these deceased hostages has reignited grief across Israel, where citizens have gathered to mourn and honor their memory. Approximately 70 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas, with many presumed dead.