Israeli officials have released the remains of Dror Or, an Israeli hostage who died during the October 7 attacks, in exchange for the bodies of 15 Palestinians. The remains of Dror Or were returned to Israeli authorities through the Red Cross, as announced by the IDF. According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, Dror and Yonat Or were murdered by Hamas terrorists during the attacks on Kibbutz Be’eri. The family stated that they had evacuated their children through a window in a safe room, saving their lives, but the couple was separated and killed by the terrorists. Two of their children, Noam and Alma, were taken hostage but were released in the first hostage exchange in November 2023. The transfer of Dror Or’s remains was delayed two years from the date of his death.
Families of the remaining hostages, including Israeli Ran Gvili and Thai Sudthisak Rinthalak, are still waiting for the return of their loved ones. Hamas has stated its commitment to fulfilling its part of the ceasefire agreement, but has not provided a specific timeline for the release of the remaining hostages. The Associated Press has confirmed that Hamas has pledged to return both hostages but has not set a date for the exchange. The international community continues to monitor the situation as part of the ongoing efforts to stabilize the region and ensure compliance with the terms of the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, the second phase of the ceasefire agreement includes the deployment of an international stabilization force and the creation of an international governing body for Gaza. These measures are intended to ensure the ceasefire is sustained and to prevent further hostilities. The involvement of Turkish, Egyptian, and Qatari officials, including intelligence chiefs and Qatar’s prime minister, demonstrates the high-level commitment to resolving the conflict and advancing peace efforts. Although there are ongoing allegations of ceasefire violations on both sides, the mediators are working to address these challenges and move the situation forward in accordance with the agreed-upon terms of the ceasefire.