Four Bodies of Israeli Hostages Returned to Israel by Hamas
3
World
February 20, 2025 09:00
gaza strip, han yunus city - Hamas hands over the bodies of 4 Israeli hostages as part of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.
Handover of Israeli Hostages' Bodies
Hamas has handed over the bodies of 4 Israeli hostages in Gaza as part of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement with Israel. The bodies were returned to the Red Cross in a solemn ceremony in Han Yunus city. The handover comes after intense security measures were taken in the region by Hamas.
Details of the Ceremony
The bodies of the hostages, including Oded Lifshitz and three members of the Bibas family, were laid in black coffins at the ceremony site. Prior to the handover, the area was heavily guarded by members of Hamas' military wing, Izaddin al-Qassam Brigades. The coffins were handed over to the Red Cross after the official transfer documents were signed.
Circumstances of Hostages' Death
Hamas stated that the hostages died as a result of Israeli bombardments on detention centers, emphasizing that they were alive before the deliberate bombings by Israeli forces. The handover of the bodies is part of a larger agreement that will see the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the return of Israeli hostages.