Israel identifies body of last hostage returned by Hamas

The remains of a hostage in Gaza, Staff Sergeant Itay Chen, have been returned to Israel for burial, the military confirmed on Wednesday, providing the latest sign of progress under a US-brokered ceasefire.

Chen, 19, of the 77th Battalion of the 7th Brigade, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and his death was officially confirmed on March 10, 2024, the military said in a statement on X.

"The IDF expresses its deepest condolences to the family, continues to make every effort to return all deceased hostages, and is prepared for the continued implementation of the agreement," she said.

The announcement came after the remains of a hostage in Gaza were returned on Tuesday.

Before the announcement, Hamas had returned the remains of 20 hostages to Israel under a ceasefire that began on October 10.