'Israel' confirms identification of captive returned by Hamas yesterday

The 'Israeli' military announced Wednesday that it has identified the body of Staff Sgt. Itay Chen, whose remains were returned to 'Israel' by Hamas on Tuesday night.

The confirmation followed forensic examinations conducted by 'Israeli' experts.

Chen, who held dual 'Israeli'-American citizenship, was the last remaining slain captive with US nationality still held in Gaza. The remains of seven other captives killed in captivity are believed to still be in the enclave.

According to a statement from Hamas, Chen’s body was recovered earlier Tuesday during excavations in Gaza City’s eastern Shejaiya neighborhood, located beyond the so-called Yellow Line that marks the 'Israeli' military’s withdrawal boundary, indicating that the area is currently under 'Israeli' control.

Hamas said it transferred Chen’s casket to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza City on Tuesday evening. The Red Cross then escorted the remains to 'Israeli' forces operating inside the Strip, facilitating the return to 'Israel'.