Tensions Heighten as Hostage Remains Violate Ceasefire Agreement

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that body parts returned by Hamas violate a US-brokered ceasefire. The remains belonged to Ofir Tzarfati, a hostage captured during the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Amid ongoing tensions, Israel continues military operations in the West Bank, targeting Palestinian militants.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday that the body parts returned by Hamas overnight were a clear violation of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement. The remains belong to Ofir Tzarfati, a hostage taken from the Nova music festival during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.

Netanyahu plans to convene top security officials to discuss an Israeli response. Options include halting humanitarian aid to Gaza, expanding control over the territory, or launching targeted airstrikes against Hamas leaders. Israel continues to press for the return of 13 hostage bodies, accusing Hamas of delaying their recovery.

In the West Bank, Israeli authorities reported killing three Palestinian militants near Jenin during an ongoing military crackdown. Tensions remain high as both sides navigate the fragile ceasefire, with Palestinians and rights groups criticizing the loss of civilian lives in the Israeli operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)