Official statements from the Israeli government, Hamas, or credible international news agencies

Israeli Forces Recover Body of Youssef Ziyadne, Father of 19, from Gaza Tunnel

Jan 8, 2025, 04:24 PM

The Israeli military has recovered the body of Youssef Ziyadne, a 53-year-old Bedouin man from Rahat, from an underground tunnel in the Rafah area of Gaza. Ziyadne, the father of 19 children, was abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and was killed while in captivity. The operation also uncovered evidence related to his son, Hamza Ziyadne, raising serious concerns for his life. The recovery of Ziyadne's body comes amid ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages, with about 98 hostages still believed to be held by Hamas, including 36 who have been declared dead.