Israel Identifies Body of Hostage Amid Calls for More Aid
TEL AVIV – Israeli officials have confirmed the identification of Eliyahu Margalit, a 76-year-old man who was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists during the October 7th attack. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that forensic testing confirmed Margalit’s identity, and his family has been notified of his passing. Margalit was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz, where he worked at the horse stables.
This recovery marks the tenth hostage body returned since the recent ceasefire agreement. While the return of Margalit’s remains brings some closure to his family, officials have stated that efforts to recover the remaining hostages will continue.
The ceasefire agreement includes provisions for the exchange of bodies, along with increased aid deliveries into Gaza. Hamas has stated its commitment to upholding the terms of the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high. Hamas is accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire with continued attacks. The terrorist group claims nine Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire in Gaza City after their vehicle crossed into an area under Israeli control. The Israeli military maintains that the vehicle posed an “imminent threat” to troops after ignoring warning shots.
Hamas is also pushing for a greater flow of aid into Gaza, and the start of reconstruction. The terrorist organization claims the flow of aid remains limited, while Israel says it allows enough food, accusing Hamas of stealing much of it.
