Breaking News: Israel has recovered the body of Elia Toledano, the final hostage confirmed to have died in captivity in Gaza, as operations shift to a new phase.
Israel Defence Forces (IDF) retrieved the remains of Elia Toledano, 28, on Wednesday, according to The Jerusalem Post and Fox News. He was among the hostages taken during the October 7th Hamas attacks. The recovery took place during ongoing military operations within Gaza. This concludes the recovery of all known hostages who died while held by Hamas.
The operation to return Toledano’s remains occurred alongside intensifying Israeli military activity in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, reported by The Sun. Israeli forces are focused on dismantling Hamas infrastructure in the area, considered the group’s last major stronghold. The Daily Mail details how the IDF is targeting Hamas tunnels and command centres. Fox News reports Israel has told civilians to evacuate areas within Rafah. The Daily Telegraph reports that the operation comes despite international pressure to avoid a full-scale offensive that could endanger Palestinian civilians.
The IDF confirmed the operation’s success and expressed its commitment to returning all remaining hostages. A statement, cited by The Jerusalem Post, affirmed that “the IDF will continue to act with full force to dismantle Hamas and bring the hostages home.” Concisely, the IDF announced it would begin phase two of operations in Gaza.
The US State Department, according to Fox News, reiterated its support for Israel’s right to defend itself while urging caution to minimise civilian casualties. The recovery of Toledano’s remains—and confirmation of his death—is expected to further intensify pressure on Hamas to release the remaining living hostages.
Israeli forces will continue clearing Hamas strongholds in Gaza, while simultaneously attempting to negotiate the release of surviving hostages. The IDF anticipates a protracted and complex military operation.
Sources: The Sun, The Daily Telegraph, The Daily Mail, Fox News, The Jerusalem Post.
