Israel Identifies Deceased Hostages from Hamas: Families Embrace Returned Loved Ones
Israel has identified two of the deceased hostages received from Hamas and provided details about their deaths. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed the families of Guy Iluz and Bipin Joshi, stating that Iluz was kidnapped alive and injured by Hamas, succumbing to his wounds due to lack of medical treatment. Joshi was kidnapped from Kibbutz Alumim and was assessed to have been murdered in captivity. The identities of the other two deceased hostages have not been disclosed yet.
The families of the hostages and the returned individuals expressed their emotions and embraced each other. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum acknowledged the return of Guy Illouz and Bipin Joshi, along with two other deceased hostages, bringing some comfort to families who have endured uncertainty for over two years. The forum vowed to continue efforts until all 24 hostages are brought home.
On Monday, the final 20 living hostages were released after more than two years in captivity. Hamas was expected to hand over the remains of 28 deceased hostages by Monday, but faced challenges in locating all the bodies. The IDF is committed to returning all hostages and expects Hamas to fulfill its part of the agreement.
The bodies of 24 slain hostages, including potential U.S. citizens Itay Chen and Omer Neutera, are still in Gaza. The IDF continues its efforts to bring all hostages back for proper burial.