Israel confirmed on Saturday that the body of Eliyahu Margalit, a hostage abducted by Hamas during an attack in 2023, has been identified. Margalit, who was 76 years old at the time of his abduction from Kibbutz Nir Oz, is the 10th hostage whose remains have been returned since a recent ceasefire agreement. The identification was made through forensic testing, and his family has been informed.
A forum supporting the families of abducted individuals expressed gratitude for Margalit’s return but emphasized that their efforts will continue until all 28 remaining hostages are brought home. Hamas has been urged to fulfill its obligations under the ceasefire deal, including the return of all deceased hostages’ bodies.
The process of locating and returning the remains has faced challenges, with Hamas citing the destruction of tunnels and buildings by Israel as a hindrance to retrieving the bodies. The group claims that access to heavy machinery is crucial to clearing rubble in search of the remaining hostages’ remains.
While the focus has been on the repatriation of the hostages’ bodies, Hamas has called for increased aid flow into Gaza, the reopening of border crossings, and the commencement of reconstruction efforts. Israeli authorities have reiterated their stance on the importance of Hamas complying with the terms of the ceasefire agreement regarding the return of the hostages’ remains.
The international community has supported the efforts to end the longstanding conflict in Gaza, with hopes pinned on the successful implementation of the ceasefire deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the non-negotiable nature of the agreement and the necessity for Hamas to adhere to its commitments regarding the return of the remaining hostages’ bodies.