The Israeli military successfully retrieved the body of Staff Sgt. Oron Shaul, who had been held by Hamas since 2014. This significant development took place right before the implementation of Sunday’s cease-fire agreement.
The Israeli Defense Forces and the Shin Bet intelligence agency discovered the remains of Shaul in the Gaza Strip through a joint covert operation.
Shaul, a brave soldier who tragically lost his life during an operation in Gaza city amidst the 2014 conflict, was initially anticipated to be one of the hostages released in the groundbreaking cease-fire agreement. However, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari has announced that the fallen soldier will be returning home earlier than expected.
During a Sunday night news conference, Hagari stated that the past decade has witnessed a remarkable intelligence and operational endeavor. This endeavor has been ongoing since the fall and abduction of the individual in question, with particular emphasis on the recent war and the preceding days.
The Israeli Navy’s Shayetet 13 commando unit and Shin Bet’s elite forces conducted the operation to recover Shaul’s body over the weekend, according to IDF officials.
The IDF conducted a search in northern Gaza, an area they are withdrawing from. Hamas has maintained a stronghold in this region after resurfacing following months of prolonged war.
After Shaul’s body was transported to the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute, it underwent identification procedures to confirm his identity. Once his identity was established, his family was promptly notified.
Shaul and Lt. Hadar Goldin were both IDF soldiers whose bodies have been held hostage in Gaza for over a decade.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a press release that they have successfully accomplished the mission to bring back Oron. He further emphasized their determination to continue their efforts until they also bring back Hadar Goldin.
“We are committed to taking further action to ensure the safe return of all our hostages, both those who are still alive and those who have sadly passed away,” he emphasized.
Defense Minister Israel Katz also highlighted the successful operation, praising the relentless efforts of the Shaul family in their unwavering determination to bring their son back home.
Hamas currently holds 94 hostages who were captured during the Oct. 7 terrorist attack, following Sunday’s cease-fire and the initial release of hostages.
The terror group is currently holding not only the hostages but also two civilians who entered the Gaza Strip in 2014 and 2015, as well as the body of Goldin.
The agreement still includes the release of additional hostages. Among the 33 hostages to be freed in the first 42 days of the truce are the two civilians, Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed.