Hamas Returns Remains of American Hostage to Israel

In October 2023, Hamas returned the remains of the last American hostage to Israel.

The body of Sgt. Itai Chen was handed over after he was captured during a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. Sadly, he was pronounced dead in March 2024.

As reports state, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has commented on the situation.

At this time, there are still at least seven other hostages being held by Hamas.

In the midst of this, the Trump administration has put forth a proposal to the UN Security Council for the establishment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF).

“The 20-point plan includes the ISF, which aligns with Security Council mandates and resolutions. Consultations are ongoing in New York, including discussions with the British mission,” noted Hamish Falconer, the UK minister for the Middle East.

The proposed ISF is intended to remain in Gaza for a minimum of two years. President Trump aims to create a peace commission to monitor the ISF’s activities.

One of the key components of the plan involves the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, which must occur under military oversight. This includes preventing the destruction and rebuilding of military infrastructure and ensuring the permanent dismantling of weapons held by non-state armed groups like Hamas and others.

The ISF is also expected to work alongside Egypt and Israel. However, some Arab nations have expressed opposition, seeing it as a means of “peace enforcement” rather than a true “peacekeeping” mission to avoid direct confrontations with Hamas.

Even with a ceasefire in place, Hamas has yet to disarm. President Trump has issued a warning that if Hamas doesn’t take steps to disarm, it might face disarmament or even elimination by other means.

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