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Family of Last Deceased Israeli Hostage Demands Body's Return Before Ceasefire Advances

TEL AVIV — The family of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, the last confirmed deceased Israeli hostage held in Gaza, is demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump secure the return of his remains before a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement with Hamas proceeds to its second phase.

In a statement carried by Hebrew-language media, Gvili's family issued a direct appeal to the leaders. "The first phase of the hostage deal is still not completed, while Rani hasn’t returned home," the statement said. "We demand that Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump pressure Hamas and Islamic Jihad to return Rani home immediately! We can’t move to the second phase of the deal without Rani here."

The demand creates a significant hurdle for diplomatic efforts. The Trump administration is reportedly aiming to announce the transition to Phase Two of its Gaza peace plan within approximately two weeks. This next phase is intended to build upon the fragile ceasefire, which Washington helped broker nearly two months ago, and would involve more complex, long-term arrangements.

The family's public pressure underscores the enduring trauma of the hostage crisis and places the return of all captives—both living and deceased—at the center of political and humanitarian considerations. The Israeli government has stated that the return of all hostages remains a top priority.

Other Updates from Israel and the Region

*   South Africa Rescinds Palestinian Visa Waiver: South Africa has canceled a visa exemption for Palestinian Authority passport holders, accusing individuals with alleged ties to Israel of abusing the policy to facilitate "voluntary emigration" efforts from Gaza.
*   Clash in Hebron: The Israel Defense Forces reported that two Palestinians were shot and killed after allegedly speeding toward troops in a vehicle in Hebron. One Israeli soldier sustained light injuries in the incident.
*   Netanyahu Denies Outpost Report: A spokesperson for Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a "flat denial" of a television report claiming the premier ordered the evacuation of 14 illegal settlement outposts.


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