'How is it possible?': Hostage families criticize return of Gazan bodies

The IDF did not comment on this development, but Israel has been noted to return bodies after checking they were not Israeli hostages who had been held by Hamas. 

 Palestinians make their way as they return to the eastern side of Khan Younis after Israeli forces pulled out from the area following a raid, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip July 30, 2024.  (photo credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled)
Palestinians make their way as they return to the eastern side of Khan Younis after Israeli forces pulled out from the area following a raid, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip July 30, 2024.
(photo credit: REUTERS/Hatem Khaled)

The Hostage and Missing Families Forum criticized the reported decision to return the bodies of 80 Gazans to the Gaza Strip, the Forum announced in a statement on Monday. 

"How is it possible that the State of Israel gives back 80 bodies and receives 0 in return."

"How is it possible that the State of Israel, under the leadership of Netanyahu, is returning bodies that are not part of a deal? What about our family members, how long will they be held captive by Hamas in Gaza?" the families stated. 

Reports of Israel returning bodies 

Israel reportedly returned the bodies of more than 80 Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, Reuters reported, citing the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. 

The bodies were screened and examined to determine the cause of death and identification. 

Hostage and Missing Families Forum sets up massive display in front of Capitol Hill demanding Netanyahu to sign deal  (credit: Hostages and Missing Families Forum)
Hostage and Missing Families Forum sets up massive display in front of Capitol Hill demanding Netanyahu to sign deal (credit: Hostages and Missing Families Forum)

The IDF did not comment on this development, but Israel has been noted to return bodies after checking they were not Israeli hostages who had been held by Hamas since the October 7 massacre. 

Reuters contributed to this report.