Israel Demands Hostage's Body Before New Truce Talks

An Israeli delegation is in Egypt for urgent talks. Their goal is to recover the body of the last remaining hostage held in Gaza. Israel has set a firm condition. It will not begin negotiations for the second phase of a Gaza ceasefire until the body is returned. This second phase is meant to involve detailed talks on a more lasting truce and the release of more hostages. The current situation highlights a major obstacle. Progress toward a broader agreement is now tied to this single, somber task. The talks in Cairo are focused solely on this issue. The condition underscores the emotional and political weight of the hostage crisis in Israel. The government faces intense public pressure to bring all captives home, both living and dead.