Tel Aviv: Israeli authorities announced on Saturday the recovery of the body of a Thai citizen, Natfong Pinta, from the Gaza Strip. The operation, reported to have occurred in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza on Friday, was described by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office as a recovery mission following the death of the hostage in captivity.
According to Anadolu Agency, Israeli estimates indicate that 59 captives are still held in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. In comparison, approximately 10,000 Palestinians are imprisoned in Israel, where they reportedly face harsh conditions, including allegations of torture, starvation, and inadequate medical care, as noted by both Palestinian and Israeli rights organizations.
Israel has continued its military offensive in Gaza since October 2023, despite international calls for a ceasefire. The offensive has resulted in the deaths of nearly 54,700 Palestinians, a majority of whom are women and children. Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the potential for famine among Gaza's population of over 2 million people.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions against civilians in the region.