Israel says Red Cross receives remains of deceased Gaza captive

Wednesday, November 26, 2025 -The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has transferred what Israel says are the remains of a deceased Gaza captive to Israeli authorities, amid ongoing efforts to return bodies under the ceasefire agreement.

The remains were handed over in Gaza and delivered to Israel’s military for forensic identification, following confirmation by Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine that the body belonged to one of the final captives still listed as missing.

Under the terms of the ceasefire, militants agreed to hand over all captives — living and dead — while Israel committed to returning detained Palestinians. The handover underscores the fragile but ongoing negotiation process, even as tensions remain high and some bodies remain unaccounted for. 

Officials say the remains will undergo forensic tests before the family is notified, while authorities stress the handover does not end until all captives’ remains are returned.

This update comes at a tense time: many in Israel and internationally view the return of remains as central to honoring victims and easing pressure on ongoing diplomatic efforts. 

As Gaza continues to suffer under war‑related destruction and rubble complicates recovery efforts, the handovers serve as grim reminders of the human cost — even as some hope for closure for families and communities still waiting.