Netanyahu Vows to Intensify Pressure on Hamas to Return Bodies of Remaining Hostages
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the government remains “determined” to ensure that Hamas hands over the bodies of all hostages known to be deceased, alongside locating those still alive. He reiterated that while a recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire has secured the return of all surviving captives, only a portion of the dead have been repatriated, leaving dozens of remains unaccounted for.
At a public address, Netanyahu stressed that the “fight is not over yet,” insisting that Israel will maintain both diplomatic and security pressure on Hamas until it fulfills its commitments under the ceasefire agreement. Israeli officials argue that some bodies remain trapped under rubble or in locations still inaccessible due to damage and conflict, and have pushed for specialized recovery teams and clearer access to affected areas.
The Israeli government has also called upon the international community to support logistical cooperation, forensic identification, and aid in ensuring all hostages—alive or dead—are returned. Netanyahu warned that failure to comply could lead to renewed military operations. Families of the missing have expressed frustration and grief over the slow pace of returns, urging that no effort be spared to recover all loved ones.
