• Israel received the body of hostage Meny Godard as part of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
• Godard was identified through forensic procedures after being captured on October 7, 2023.
• In exchange, Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza.
• The ceasefire continues amid accusations between Israel and Hamas of violations.
• Over 69,000 people have reportedly died in Gaza since the conflict escalated.

On November 13, 2025, Israel confirmed the receipt of the body of hostage Meny Godard, aged 73, under a ceasefire deal with Hamas. This handover occurred in the Gaza Strip and was facilitated by the Red Cross, following an agreement that has allowed for the return of hostages and remains of deceased captives. Godard had been abducted during the initial Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and was confirmed dead at the time of his recovery, according to Le Monde and AA.

The Israeli military stated Godard's remains were identified through forensic methods coordinated with police and military rabbinates. His body was recovered in Khan Yunis, which had been a focal point during the conflict. The ceasefire, initiated on October 10, 2023, allowed for the release of hostages, with 20 living captives returned to Israel by Hamas, along with 27 remains prior to Godard's identification, as highlighted by AA and LA Times.

In a reciprocal move, Israel returned the bodies of 15 Palestinians to Gaza, a significant step in fulfilling the ceasefire terms. The total number of bodies returned to Israel has reached 25 so far, while three more hostages remain in Gaza. This ongoing exchange underscores the complexity and fragility of the ceasefire agreement, amid allegations from both sides of not adhering to additional terms, according to LA Times and Le Monde.

As the military conflict persists, Gaza’s Health Ministry reports vast casualties, claiming over 69,000 deaths predominantly among women and children since the conflict escalated. This staggering number highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where identification of remains has become increasingly challenging due to a lack of resources. Allegations of both parties violating ceasefire terms continue, with both Israel and Hamas exchanging accusations regarding the handling of bodies and military actions in separate regions, as noted by LA Times.