GAZA, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Gaza-based health authorities said Saturday that Israel handed over the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) as part of the prisoner exchange deal with Hamas.
The transfer brings to 135 the total number of bodies returned from Israel, the health authorities said in a press statement.
The authorities confirmed that their medical teams continue to handle the bodies in accordance with approved medical procedures and protocols before handing them over to the families.
The health and forensic authorities in Gaza are responsible for identifying the remains, and the ICRC is providing technical guidance when necessary, according to the statement.
The Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7, 2023, when a surprise attack by Hamas-led militants on southern Israel killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. The ensuing Israeli offensive in Gaza has killed 67,967 people and injured another 170,179, according to Gaza's health authorities.
A ceasefire, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, and the United States, went into effect on Oct. 10. Its first phase includes the exchange of prisoners and detainees, the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, and partial withdrawal of Israeli forces.
Israel, under the agreement, has received all remaining 20 living hostages and 10 out of the 28 bodies that Hamas is obliged to return. ■
