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Egypt and Red Cross Launch Critical Search for Israeli Hostage Bodies in Gaza
Gaza/New Delhi, 27 October 2023: In a major development amid the Israel-Hamas war, Egypt and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have started a high-stakes operation to recover the bodies of Israeli hostages in Gaza. The effort is taking place during a temporary US-brokered ceasefire, offering a brief pause in the relentless conflict.
Key Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The White House confirmed a 48-hour humanitarian pause, allowing teams to retrieve hostages and deliver aid to Gaza’s civilians. This fragile truce follows weeks of violence, with both sides accusing each other of breaking past ceasefire agreements.
US President Joe Biden stressed the need for “compassion and humanity,” urging all parties to honor the pause. The ceasefire has opened limited humanitarian corridors, enabling Red Cross and Egyptian teams to operate in Gaza’s devastated areas.
Challenges in Recovering Hostage Remains
Israeli officials report that over 200 hostages were taken by Hamas during the October 7 attacks, with at least 50 confirmed dead. The recovery mission is complicated by Gaza’s widespread destruction, unexploded bombs, and the looming threat of renewed clashes.
Egyptian forensic experts and ICRC workers are coordinating with local authorities to access suspected hostage sites. An Egyptian diplomat stated, “This is a race against time—every minute counts for grieving families.”
Gaza’s Deepening Humanitarian Crisis
Despite the ceasefire, Gaza faces severe shortages:
– 1.4+ million displaced
– Hospitals overwhelmed
– Critical lack of food, water, and fuel
Limited aid is entering through the Rafah crossing, but agencies like the WHO warn: “A temporary pause isn’t enough—we need sustained access.”
Global Reactions and What’s Next
- Israel: PM Netanyahu vows to resume military operations post-ceasefire.
- Hamas: Accuses Israel of using the truce as a tactical move.
- International Response: US and EU back the pause; regional tensions persist.
Diplomatic efforts continue to extend the ceasefire, but prospects for lasting peace remain slim.
Follow live updates on this evolving situation.
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