Israel has received the bodies of four hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7 attacks, intensifying calls for the group to locate and return all remaining victims as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement. While all living Israeli hostages were returned earlier this week, only a fraction of those who died in captivity have been recovered, with concerns that some bodies may be lost under rubble in Gaza. The return of hostages, both living and dead, remains a central issue in negotiations, with Israel limiting aid and keeping the Rafah crossing closed in response to Hamas's failure to comply fully.

Families of the hostages have urged the Israeli government to continue efforts to bring back the remaining bodies, while some government ministers advocate for increased military pressure. Meanwhile, questions persist about Hamas's willingness to disarm as required by the peace plan, with United States President Donald Trump warning of swift and potentially violent action if the group does not comply. Trump also noted discrepancies in the number of hostages Hamas claims to have, raising doubts about the group's transparency during negotiations.

International leaders, including Britain's Sir Keir Starmer, have called on Hamas to honor the ceasefire terms and release all hostages, highlighting the ongoing emotional toll on affected families. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complex demands of the ceasefire deal and the broader peace process.