JERUSALEM — Israel announced on Tuesday that it has received the remains of a hostage from Gaza, marking a significant development in the ongoing ceasefire that began on October 10. This transfer is part of a broader effort to address the aftermath of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in substantial loss of life and destruction.

The military reported that the remains were handed over as part of the ceasefire agreement, which has seen Hamas return over 20 hostages' remains since its inception. However, seven bodies are still believed to be in Gaza, pending identification. Forensic testing will confirm the identity of the latest remains, which could clarify the status of the remaining hostages.

Under the terms of the ceasefire, for each Israeli hostage returned, Israel has been releasing the remains of 15 Palestinians. To date, 270 Palestinian bodies have been exchanged, but fewer than half have been identified due to challenges in forensic work, including a shortage of DNA testing kits in Gaza. The Health Ministry in Gaza has been posting photos of the remains online to assist families in identification.

The conflict escalated following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of around 250 individuals. In response, Israel launched a military offensive that has reportedly killed over 68,800 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This ministry, which operates under Hamas, maintains detailed records that independent experts generally consider reliable. Israel has disputed these figures but has not provided an alternative count.

In a related development, the United States is drafting a proposal for the U.N. Security Council to establish an international stabilization force in Gaza for at least two years. This initiative aims to facilitate peace and aid efforts in the region. U.S. officials indicated that the draft is a preliminary step toward broader negotiations among council members and international partners.

Since the ceasefire began, the World Food Program has reached one million people in Gaza with food assistance. However, officials stress that more border crossings need to be opened to enhance aid delivery. Currently, only two crossings are operational, limiting the agency's ability to meet the needs of the population.

In a visit to the West Bank, Singapore’s foreign minister reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the aid process, witnessing the handover of $24 million in aid to the World Food Program. Nearly 40 countries and international organizations are now represented at a U.S.-led center in Israel, which coordinates aid to Gaza and monitors the ceasefire.

As the situation continues to evolve, the complexities of the ceasefire and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remain at the forefront of international discussions. The ongoing efforts to recover hostages and provide aid highlight the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.