Israel: Slain hostages are in Israel, public asked to wait for examination results

The Prime Minister's Office said today (Thursday) that Israel has taken possession of the slain hostages and will be sending them for forensic examination to be identified. The public is asked to wait to mourn until identification.

Here is the full statement:

Israel has received, through the Red Cross, the coffins of four deceased hostages. The coffins were delivered to IDF and Shin Bet forces inside the Gaza Strip, from where they will be transferred to Israel to the National Center for Forensic Medicine of the Ministry of Health. After the identification process is completed, an official notification will be given to the families.

The families of the hostages have been updated about this, and in this difficult hour, our hearts are with them.

The public is requested to respect the privacy of the families and to refrain from spreading rumors and information that is not official and verified.

We will continue to update with reliable information as needed.