Israel recovers last hostage's remains in Gaza, clearing way for next ceasefire phase

Israel announced it has recovered and identified the remains of the last hostage in Gaza and said there are no more hostages in the enclave; officials linked the development to preparations for the ceasefire's next phase, including a likely reopening of the Rafah crossing.

Israeli authorities said they recovered and identified the remains of the last hostage in Gaza, a development that officials tied to moving forward under the terms of the ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told parliament that there are no more hostages in Gaza and described the recovery as completing a pledged mission. The finding is reported to affect plans for the ceasefire's second phase, which has been framed around reopening border crossings and addressing security arrangements and governance in Gaza. Independent access for journalists was also raised in court filings this week, adding a separate procedural element to the situation. Key developments: - Israeli officials announced the remains of police officer Ran Gvili were recovered and identified. - The Israeli government stated there are no more hostages in Gaza and presented the recovery as closing that chapter of the truce. - Authorities and mediators have linked the recovery to moving into the ceasefire's next phase, which includes reopening the Rafah crossing and arrangements on security and governance. - The Foreign Press Association has asked Israel's Supreme Court to allow independent journalist access to Gaza, and judges are expected to rule soon. Summary: The reported recovery of the last hostage's remains removes a stated precondition for advancing to the next phase of the ceasefire, which officials say will focus on border access and security arrangements. Undetermined at this time.