In a significant development amidst the fragile Gaza ceasefire, Hamas has handed over the remains of a deceased hostage, marking the sixteenth of 28 bodies promised under the truce agreement. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed the receipt of the coffin, which was transported from Gaza to Israel for identification and eventual return to the hostage’s family. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged Hamas to expedite the transfer of the remaining 13 deceased captives, emphasizing that the group knows their locations despite claims to the contrary. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem countered that the destruction caused by Israel’s bombardment has complicated the recovery process, but reiterated the group’s commitment to fulfilling the ceasefire terms. The October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas resulted in 251 hostages, with most already released or recovered. The conflict has claimed over 68,000 lives in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health ministry figures. Meanwhile, Israel has lifted the state of emergency near the Gaza border for the first time since the attack, signaling a tentative step toward normalization. Egypt has deployed recovery crews to assist in the search for remaining bodies, with Israeli approval. The U.S. is working to establish an international security force to oversee the truce, though Israel has opposed Turkey’s participation, citing its hostile stance. Humanitarian agencies continue to push for greater access to Gaza for aid delivery, as Israel maintains control over half the territory.