Israeli forces recovered the bodies of three hostages from the Gaza Strip on Thursday night, according to chief military spokesperson Daniel Hagari. The three individuals, identified as Shani Louk, Amit Buskila, and Yitzhak Gelernter, were allegedly killed by Hamas while trying to escape the Nova music festival on October 7. Louk, a 23-year-old German-Israeli woman, was confirmed dead in October when partial remains were found and matched to her DNA.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the military operation and reiterated a commitment to returning all hostages, whether alive or deceased. Hagari did not disclose where the bodies were discovered.
The rescue operation comes following a surprise attack by Hamas on southern Israeli bases and communities on October 7, resulting in an estimated 1,200 casualties and 250 hostages. Approximately 130 hostages are reportedly still held in Gaza.
In response to the attack, Israel launched an air, ground, and sea assault on the blockaded Palestinian territory, resulting in the deaths of over 35,000 Palestinians, according to Hamas. The bombardment has displaced a significant portion of Gaza's 2.3 million population, devastated the enclave, and led to a severe humanitarian crisis. Aid agencies have warned of widespread hunger and the threat of disease in the region.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, with both sides facing criticism for the loss of civilian lives and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.