In a significant development, Hamas has handed over the mortal remains of four more hostages to Israeli forces. This transfer follows earlier returns and comes amid escalating tensions, with Israel threatening to significantly reduce aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the Red Cross facilitated the handover of the four bodies in Gaza on Tuesday. These remains are now undergoing identification procedures at the National Centre for Forensic Medicine, with families to be notified of the results. This move occurs shortly after the initial return of four other deceased hostages. It remains uncertain if the Israeli military coordination office, COGAT, will proceed with the announced reduction, potentially allowing only half of the agreed-upon 600 aid trucks to enter Gaza. COGAT had previously informed the UN’s humanitarian office and briefed US officials about these proposed aid cuts for the Gaza region. The situation highlights the complex and fraught negotiations surrounding the return of hostages and the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.
