The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced on Thursday that it successfully facilitated the return of three bodies to Israeli authorities. This operation, conducted at the request and with the agreement of all involved parties, represents the first such exchange since hostilities resumed.

Acting as a neutral intermediary, the ICRC stated that the identification of the remains will be undertaken by Israeli authorities. The organization clarified that it does not participate in the process of locating the remains.

The ICRC’s role was strictly limited to coordinating the transfer, and it highlighted that, according to international humanitarian law, it is the obligation of the parties involved to locate, collect, and repatriate the deceased.

This transfer is a notable instance of cooperation between the parties amidst ongoing conflict, as humanitarian organizations continue to urge for increased access to the affected areas.

Previously, on October 21, 2025, Hamas had transferred the bodies of two additional Israeli hostages to ICRC officials, facilitating their passage into Israel via the Kissufim border crossing in central Gaza. (Photo credit: Alaa Y. M. Abumohsen/Anadolu via Getty Images)

The ICRC has previously overseen similar exchanges in conflicts involving Israel and armed groups in Gaza and Lebanon, typically serving only as an intermediary to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.

“The parties must act to ensure their return to their families,” the ICRC said, adding it can fulfill its neutral role “only through cooperation from all relevant parties and within the framework of the current agreement.”

Israeli soldiers stand near their tanks along the Israeli-Gaza border, as seen from southern Israel Oct. 10, 2025, after Israel and Hamas agreed to a pause in their war and the release of remaining hostages. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Israeli officials have not yet released details about the identities of the deceased or the circumstances of the transfer.

A drone view shows participants holding a large banner during a rally held by hostage families and supporters at Hostages Square to demand the immediate release of the bodies of the deceased hostages who were kidnapped in the deadly Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas in Tel Aviv, Israel, Oct. 18, 2025.  (Ilan Rosenberg/Reuters)

The ICRC’s involvement in body transfers dates back decades, often serving as one of the few remaining channels of communication between adversaries during times of active conflict.