Remains of last Thai hostage in Gaza have been returned, Israeli authorities say | World News
Red Cross convoy carrying the body of a person believed to be a deceased hostage handed over Hamas militants makes its way toward the border crossing with Israel, to be transferred to Israeli authorities, in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip. (AP Photo)
Thai officials on Thursday said remains handed over to Israel militants in Gaza have been identified as belonging to the last Thai hostage taken during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that launched the war.
The Thai Minry of Foreign Affairs said it had been notified Israeli authorities that the remains of a hostage that was returned was identified as Sudhisak Rinthalak, a Thai national who was an agricultural worker.
Nikorndej Balankura, the minry’s spokesperson, said that Sudhisak’s family has been notified. He added that Sudhisak was killed on the day of the attack, and his body was taken into Gaza.
He thanked the Israeli government for their assance that led to the release of all Thai hostages.
In all, 20 living hostages and the remains of 27 others have been returned to Israel since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire began in early October. The returns are a key part of the terms of a shaky ceasefire, which both Hamas and Israel have accused the other of breaking.Story continues below this ad
With just one hostage left, the sides are close to wrapping up the first phase of the ceasefire.
Since the start of the ceasefire, Israel has released the bodies of hundreds Palestinians to Gaza, in exchange for hostages or their remains. Most remain unidentified.
