Hamas returns bodies of four Israeli hostages including mother and two children

Hamas has returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages, including a mother and her two young children, who were feared dead since the group's attack on October 7, 2023. The remains are believed to be Shiri Bibas, her sons Ariel and Kfir, and Oded Lifshitz. The bodies were displayed in Gaza before being transferred to Israeli forces for identification. Lifshitz's family confirmed his remains, expressing their sorrow after 16 months of uncertainty. This handover contrasts with the recent release of 24 living hostages during a cease-fire. Hamas plans to release six more living hostages soon, while negotiations for a longer cease-fire continue. The situation remains tense, with ongoing discussions about the fate of remaining hostages and the future of the cease-fire.