Gaza receives 54 bodies, 66 boxes of remains; 15 patients evacuated under Israeli restrictions
The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza received dozens of bodies handed over by Israel on 15 October 2025
The Palestine Chronicle reports on 4 February 2026:
Key Developments
- Israeli forces handed over 54 Palestinian bodies and 66 boxes of human remains to Gaza via the Red Cross. The remains were transferred to Al-Shifa Medical Complex for examination, documentation, and identification.
- Israel has returned 360 Palestinian bodies to Gaza in 15 batches under the ceasefire agreement.
- Separately, 15 patients and 31 companions were evacuated from Gaza through the Rafah crossing.
- Around 22,000 wounded and sick Palestinians are still seeking medical evacuation amid healthcare collapse.
54 Bodies and 66 Boxes of Remains
Israeli occupation forces returned the bodies of 54 Palestinians and 66 boxes containing human remains to the Gaza Strip on Wednesday evening, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The transfer was carried out through the International Committee of the Red Cross, with the bodies delivered to the Al-Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza City.
Health officials said medical teams immediately began handling the bodies and remains in accordance with approved medical procedures and forensic protocols.
Identification and Documentation
In a statement, Gaza’s Health Ministry said its teams are continuing examination, documentation, and identification processes in coordination with relevant authorities and specialized committees. The procedures are being conducted ahead of handing the bodies over to families, where possible, under established medical and legal protocols. Officials noted that the presence of dozens of boxes containing dismembered remains significantly complicates identification efforts.