'Israel' army says remains of two captives handed over to Red Cross in Gaza

The 'Israeli' military said the remains of two captives were transferred to the Red Cross in Gaza on Thursday, after Hamas announced it would hand over the bodies.

"According to information provided by the Red Cross, two coffins of deceased hostages have been transferred into their custody and are on their way to IDF troops in the Gaza Strip," a statement from the 'Israeli' military and security agency said.

A few hours ago, Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, stated in a sudden move on Thursday that they will hand over the bodies of two captives held by the group.

The statement did not reveal the identities of the deceased. The move is seen as a significant pressure tactic against the ‘Israeli’ government and has raised questions about whether it is intended to escalate psychological warfare or send covert messages to mediators to revive stalled negotiations.