Gaza Receives 45 Bodies Returned by Israel Amid Ceasefire and Aid Restrictions

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The Gaza Health Ministry has confirmed that 45 more bodies of Palestinians were returned by Israeli authorities, bringing the total number of bodies handed over this week to 90. Officials in Gaza stated that the bodies were received through the coordination mechanism under the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

Health officials said the bodies were taken to hospitals in the Strip for identification and medical examination. Many of the victims were reported missing in earlier stages of the conflict, and local authorities are now working with families to complete the identification process.

Ongoing Restrictions on Aid and Fuel

The development comes as Israel continues to restrict humanitarian aid and fuel supplies to Gaza, citing ongoing security concerns. According to Gaza’s government media office, aid deliveries have been reduced by nearly half in recent days, significantly affecting hospital operations and relief distribution.

Health officials have warned that the limited fuel supply is posing serious risks to medical facilities, particularly those relying on backup generators for power. Several hospitals have already reduced their operating capacity as a result of fuel shortages.

Ceasefire Under Strain

The return of the bodies and reduction of aid come amid a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Palestinian factions. The deal, mediated by regional and international partners, was intended to allow for humanitarian relief and reconstruction in the war-torn enclave.

However, local authorities in Gaza have accused Israel of violating the terms of the agreement by restricting essential supplies and delaying humanitarian convoys.

Appeal to the International Community

Gaza’s Ministry of Health has called on international organizations, including the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), to help ensure unimpeded access to humanitarian aid and to oversee the proper handling of the returned bodies.

Officials reiterated that the humanitarian situation remains critical, with hospitals struggling to cope amid shortages of medical supplies, electricity, and fuel.