Israeli forces recover bodies of six hostages from Gaza, impacting cease-fire negotiations

The bodies of six hostages taken during Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, were recovered Tuesday. 

The Israeli military, according to the Associated Press, said the bodies were recovered during an overnight operation in Gaza. 

The recovery comes as U.S. and Arab mediators are trying to come to an agreement to end the war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. Hamas, the Associated Press reported, was hoping for an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, an Israeli withdrawal, and a lasting cease-fire, which the recovery will make more difficult. 

The Israeli government is still hoping to reach an agreement to release dozens of hostages held by Hamas who are believed to be still alive. 

The military said the remains recovered in the operation were those of Chaim Perry, 80; Yoram Metzger, 80; Avraham Munder, 79; Alexander Dancyg, 76; Nadav Popplewell, 51; and Yagev Buchshtav, 35.