Body of last Israeli captive found in Gaza, as Hamas calls for unrestricted ceasefire

The Israeli army announced this evening that it had officially identified the body of Israeli captive and police officer, Ran Gueli, which was discovered in the Gaza Strip. Notably, Gueli is the last hostage to be returned.

The last Israeli hostage

The discovery followed the examination of approximately 250 bodies in a cemetery in al-Shuja’iyya, located in eastern Gaza, as reported by Israel’s Channel 12. Furthermore, Israeli Army Radio later confirmed the body’s positive identification after forensic analysis.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the public of the discovery. Meanwhile, Israel’s military confirmed that all Israeli hostages had been released or recovered from Gaza.

Hamas wades in

In response, Hamas claimed responsibility for aiding in the search for the body, citing “national responsibility” and its commitment to the terms of the multiphase ceasefire agreement with Israel. The group said it cooperated with mediators by providing vital information. Moreover, it believes this contributed to the discovery of the body.

Hamas emphasised its full commitment to the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. The group asserted that it had honoured all its obligations, including the complete exchange of prisoners as outlined in the deal.

GazIsrael’s end of the bargain

Hamas called on Israel to uphold its end of the ceasefire agreement without delay or compromise. Specifically, it demanded the unrestricted opening of the Rafah crossing and the entry of essential goods into Gaza in required quantities. Additionally, the group called for a full withdrawal from Gaza. It also requested the facilitation of the National Committee for the Management of the Strip’s operations.

Additionally, Hamas urged the guarantor states and the United States to ensure Israel meets its obligations, particularly those concerning humanitarian and administrative provisions. The group argued that the discovery of the last hostage’s body removes any justification for Israel’s continued delays in implementing the agreement.

This development comes amid growing tensions over Israel’s perceived failure to fully implement the ceasefire terms, especially regarding humanitarian aid and administrative support in Gaza.

Featured image via Reuters/the Canary