Israeli forces recovered the remains of hostage Ilan Weiss from Gaza on Friday, as tensions escalate ahead of a potential full-scale military operation in the besieged city. The 55-year-old’s body was identified nearly nine months after Hamas’ October 7 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and sparked the ongoing conflict.
A Family’s Tragic Story
Weiss’ wife and daughter were among 240 people abducted during the 2023 assault on Be’eri village. While they were freed after 50 days in captivity, Weiss was declared dead in January – a conclusion confirmed by forensic experts. His recovery marks another painful chapter in Israel’s mission to account for all victims.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As troops mass around Gaza City, Israel announced it will:
🚫 Suspend daily humanitarian aid pauses
🛩️ Phase out airdrop operations
🚚 Reduce ground aid trucks to northern Gaza
Military sources told Kan TV News that evacuation orders for Gaza City residents could begin within 10 days, ahead of Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) on September 23.
Hamas Fires Back
The Al-Qassam Brigades warned Israel’s leadership would face "heavy costs" for advancing into Gaza City. Spokesperson Abu Obeida vowed: "Every meter gained will be paid in soldiers’ blood," while claiming Israeli prisoners remain under Hamas fighters’ conditions.
With nearly 50 hostages still missing and 20 believed alive, the conflict shows no signs of cooling. As both sides dig in, civilians brace for what could become the war’s most intense phase yet. 🌍💔
