As tensions rise in the Israel-Gaza war, Hamas releases four more bodies to the Red Cross while Israel restricts humanitarian aid and delays the Rafah Crossing, demanding further action on captive returns.
Hamas Returns Bodies Amid Growing Tensions
In a somber exchange that underscores the fragility of the current truce, Hamas has handed over the bodies of four more Israeli captives to the Red Cross, bringing the total number of deceased Israelis returned to eight.
According to Israeli officials, around 20 bodies remain in Gaza, as both sides continue to negotiate under heavy international pressure. The releases are part of a complex arrangement following recent ceasefire talks, but tensions over timing and conditions have strained the fragile deal.
Israel Limits Aid and Delays Rafah Crossing
In response to what it called “slow progress” on the recovery of hostages’ remains, Israel announced new restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The government said it will allow only half the agreed number of aid trucks to enter the territory and has delayed the reopening of the Rafah Crossing, a key route for food, fuel, and medical supplies.
The move drew concern from aid agencies, who warned that Gaza’s population — already suffering from widespread shortages — faces “a worsening humanitarian crisis” if restrictions continue.
Trump Urges Hamas to Disarm
From Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Hamas, calling on the group to disarm immediately or face consequences.
“If they don’t disarm, we will disarm them,” Trump said. “And it will happen quickly — and perhaps violently.”
Trump’s remarks come as part of his broader Middle East peace initiative, which seeks to stabilize the region following years of bloodshed and political division.
The Human Cost of the Israel-Gaza War
According to the latest figures from Gaza health authorities, at least 67,913 people have been killed and 170,134 wounded since October 2023, when Israel launched its large-scale military campaign in Gaza.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on southern Israel left 1,139 Israelis dead and about 200 people taken captive, igniting the war that has since devastated the region.
A Fragile Moment for Peace
While the return of the deceased captives represents a small step toward closure for Israeli families, both sides remain locked in a tense and uncertain phase. With aid restrictions tightening and diplomatic efforts intensifying, the path to lasting peace in Gaza still appears fraught with risk.