Israel strikes Gaza after Hamas fakes unearthing partial remains of hostage whose body IDF recovered in 2023
Israel has reportedly launched strikes on Gaza, asserting that Hamas violated a US-brokered ceasefire and attacked Israeli soldiers. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated these actions were in retaliation. A key point of contention is a coffin handed over by Hamas on 27 October, which Israel claims did not contain the body of another deceased hostage.
Forensic analysis revealed that the remains within the coffin belonged to Ofir Tzarfati, whose body the IDF had already recovered in 2023. Israel also shared a video purportedly showing Hamas sending fake coffins.
In response, Hamas has denied these allegations, terming them "baseless" and stating its commitment to the ceasefire deal. Hamas further claims that Israel is seeking "false pretexts" to prepare for "aggressive steps."
The situation remains tense, with Hamas currently ordered to return the bodies of the remaining 13 hostages in Gaza, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expected to discuss "steps in response" to the alleged ceasefire breach.