Overview
- Israel’s national forensic institute identified the remains as those of Lior Rudaeff, 61, killed on Oct. 7, 2023, and the army informed his family following repatriation for burial.
- Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad transferred a coffin via the International Committee of the Red Cross, and Israel delivered 15 Palestinian bodies to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis under the exchange terms.
- Since the Oct. 10 cease-fire took effect, militants have returned the remains of 23 hostages to Israel, while Israel has sent back about 300 Palestinian bodies to Gaza.
- Gaza’s Health Ministry reports only 89 of the approximately 300 returned Palestinian bodies have been identified due to limited DNA and forensic capacity, and it alleges some arrive in poor condition or show signs of abuse.
- Five hostage remains are still reported to be in Gaza under the truce framework, leaving obligations outstanding as families and officials press for further returns.