What’s holding up the return of five hostages’ remains from Gaza

Red Cross convoy carrying the body of a person believed to be a deceased hostage handed over by Palestinians militants makes its way toward the border crossing with Israel, to be transferred to Israeli authorities, in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip. (AP)

The process of returning the remains of five hostages still held in Gaza has slowed, despite a US-brokered ceasefire that began on October 10, The Associated Press (AP) reported.

Since the truce took effect, Palestinian militants have handed over the remains of 23 hostages who had been held for nearly two years. But Hamas says it cannot reach all of the bodies because some are buried under rubble caused by Israel’s ongoing offensive.

Israel has accused Hamas of delaying the process and warned it could resume military operations or