Hamas Returns Bodies of Israeli Hostages Amid Outcry from UN

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Hamas has returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages, including two young children and their mother, amid widespread condemnation over the manner of the handover. The United Nations' rights chief, Volker Turk, denounced the public display during the transfer in Khan Younis, describing it as "abhorrent" and a violation of international law. The remains were of Shiri Bibas, her two sons Ariel and Kfir, and a fourth hostage, Oded Lifschitz, aged 83.

The transfer was conducted with coffins displayed ostentatiously, surrounded by armed militants, raising concerns over the dignity accorded to the deceased and their families. The incident comes on the heels of a ceasefire agreement from last month that facilitated such releases, but officials from the International Committee of the Red Cross have called for more respect and privacy during such operations. This event marks a painful reminder for many Israelis still grappling with the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas that led to widespread casualties and abductions.

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