Israeli Army Recovers Body of Hostage Ron Benjamin
The Israeli army announced on Saturday that troops successfully retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was reportedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip.
Warning by Israeli War Cabinet Minister
Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz issued a warning, demanding a post-war plan by June 8. He threatened to quit the coalition if the deadline was not met.
Gantz’s Demands
Gantz urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to a clear vision for the Gaza conflict, including plans for the governance of the territory post-war with Hamas.
Call for a Six-Point Plan
During a news conference, Gantz called for the war cabinet to develop a comprehensive six-point plan by June 8. He stated that failure to meet his expectations would lead to the withdrawal of his centrist party from the emergency government.
Details of the Operation
Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that Benjamin’s body was recovered in an operation that also retrieved the remains of three other hostages. The military stated that Benjamin was murdered during the October 7th massacre and his body was taken to Gaza by Hamas militants.
Recovery of Other Hostages
The Israeli military also announced the recovery of the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila, who were all taken hostage during the attack on the Nova music festival.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict escalated after Hamas militants launched a deadly attack on October 7, resulting in the deaths of nearly 1,200 people in Israel. The Nova music festival was targeted, with a significant number of casualties reported.
Current Hostage Situation
Out of the 252 people initially taken hostage, 124 are still held in Gaza, with 37 confirmed dead. Israel retaliated by launching a war against Hamas to eliminate the militant threat from the Strip.
