As the country grapples with one of the most difficult days since the current hostage deal began, Israel’s health system is preparing for the painful process of receiving the bodies of four killed hostages from Hamas on Thursday.
“Our hearts are with the families, the complexity of the process, and the long wait. We will do everything possible to ease their burden and provide them with definitive answers as quickly as possible,” said Dr. Nurit Bubill, head of the laboratories division at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv. The Israel Police will bolster security in the area surrounding the institute.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed Wednesday that all six remaining living hostages slated for release under the first phase of the deal will be freed on Saturday. The bodies of four hostages will be returned on Thursday, followed by another four next week.
The Bibas family acknowledged Hamas’ announcement that Shiri Bibas and her young children, Ariel and Kfir, would be among those returned Thursday. However, the family stressed, “Until we receive definitive confirmation, our journey is not over.”
Forensic experts to conduct advanced identification process
Dr. Chen Kugel, director of the Forensic Institute, explained in a briefing that identification will be conducted using advanced scientific methods. “We will use various scientific techniques with precision and care while ensuring the dignity of the fallen hostages,” he said.
The identification process involves comparing forensic data from the remains with records taken while the individuals were alive. Initial imaging tests will be performed before a forensic doctor examines the bodies. “If possible, dental identification will also be conducted, and DNA samples will be extracted for analysis,” Kugel said.
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Following the identification, efforts will be made to determine the cause of death, a process Kugel described as “no less important than the identification itself.” He cautioned, however, that this may take time. “We will do everything in our power, but it is not always possible, especially when dealing with remains that have been held for an extended period,” he said.
Experts from the Israel Police, radiologists, forensic specialists and anthropologists will participate in the identification process. “We are doing everything possible to ensure the hostages are brought to a dignified burial as quickly as possible,” Kugel concluded.
Tight timeline for identification
Bubill outlined the expected timeframe for completing the identification. “The process can be relatively simple or highly complex,” she said. The key factors influencing the timeline are the quantity and quality of forensic samples available, as well as the condition of the DNA. “The lower the DNA preservation level, the greater the challenge,” she explained.
The institute aims to complete the identification within 24 hours, barring exceptional circumstances. “This will take at least several hours, but we are prepared to complete it within a day, except in cases that require more time,” Bubill added.
Health ministry prepares for complex stages of hostage deal
Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, head of the Health Ministry’s medical division, noted that since January 19 Israel’s health care system has received 19 returned hostages in six separate exchanges. “With the experience we have gained, we are prepared for the next rounds, which are significantly more complex, particularly the seventh round, which involves the return of four hostage bodies,” she said.
Health Minister Uriel Buso visited the forensic institute on Thursday to review preparations. “The professionals here are logistically prepared to ensure rapid identification,” he said. “This process could be brief or prolonged, as we lack precise information on the condition of the remains. Patience is required, but the most important thing is to achieve definitive identification, determine the cause of death when possible, and bring them to a proper burial.”
Anticipating the return of long-term hostages
Mizrahi also addressed Saturday’s planned release, which will include Hishem al-Sayed, who has been held captive for 10 years, and Avera Mengistu, who entered Gaza shortly after the 2014 Gaza war. “We recognize that those who have been held captive for such a long period will require different levels of treatment, including physical examinations and mental health support,” she said. “We are preparing to tailor rehabilitation to the specific needs of each returnee.”
Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer, head of the Health Ministry’s mental health division, warned of the psychological impact on the public. “We urge people to limit media exposure and avoid viewing disturbing images circulated by Hamas,” he said. Repeated exposure to graphic footage, he cautioned, increases the risk of psychological harm.
Regarding children, Bodenheimer stressed: “This is a Hamas-driven event, and we do not want children exposed to it. We strongly recommend that children not watch these distressing images. It is important to explain events in a clear and age-appropriate way while providing emotional reassurance.”