Red Cross: Recovery of Bodies from Gaza May Take Time

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warns that the recovery and handover of the remains of hostages and detainees who died during the Israel-Hamas war will be a time-consuming and difficult process. ICRC spokesperson, Christian Cardon, described the situation as a "massive challenge" due to the difficulties in locating bodies in the rubble of Gaza.

So far, the remains of four hostages have been returned to Israel, while at least 20 bodies remain missing. Israel is also expected to hand over an unspecified number of Palestinian bodies. The ICRC is providing additional staff, body bags and refrigerated vehicles to ensure the dignified treatment of the dead.

Cardon stressed that the ICRC has facilitated the transfer of 172 hostages and 3,472 Palestinian detainees since the start of the war on October 7, 2023.

The ICRC is based in Geneva and acts as a neutral humanitarian intermediary.