Israel recovers bodies of hostages in Hamas tunnel operation
In Rafah, Gaza Strip, the bodies of two Israeli hostages, Josef and Hamza Zijadne, who were kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, have been found. The information was released by Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz.
Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced the discovery of the bodies of the two Israeli hostages in Rafah, in the Gaza Strip. The victims, Josef and Hamza Zijadne, were kidnapped by Palestinian Hamas on October 7, 2023.
The bodies of Josef and Hamza were found in a Hamas tunnel in the southern part of the Gaza Strip, where the Israeli army had already completed military operations. Soldiers returned to the location after receiving intelligence about the presence of the hostages' bodies.
The tunnel also contained the bodies of two Hamas fighters, who were likely guarding the hostages. The cause of death of the Israelis remains unknown.
"I would like to extend my sincerest condolences to the family upon the discovery of the bodies of Josef and Hamza, who were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists on October 7 and brought back thanks to the heroic operation of our brave soldiers," wrote Israel Katz on platform X.
The "Times of Israel" portal reported that the operation in Rafah was made possible through intelligence that led to the discovery of the bodies. Although the Israeli army had completed military operations in the area, they returned to find the hostages.
This tragic discovery underscores the difficult situation in the Gaza Strip and the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas. These events are a reminder of the complex political and humanitarian situation in the region.