Hostage Deal

790 days after the deadliest massacre in Israel’s history, which led to the abduction of hundreds of civilians, Staff Sgt. Ran Gvili is now the last hostage still held in the Gaza Strip. 

Deceased hostage and Thai citizen Sutthisak Rinthalak, 43, had worked in Israeli agriculture since 2017. He is survived by his parents and a brother. On the morning of the October 7 massacre, he was working in fields near Kibbutz Be’eri.

Prime Minister’s Office says forensic experts will examine the materials, as Palestinian reports describe renewed searches for deceased hostages by Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists in Gaza.

He shared in the emotional ceremony, "We have a reason to celebrate after these two years. We need to live with great gratitude and remember that nothing is taken for granted. Keep smiling and being happy."

In an interview with the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed network, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson discussed progress in implementing the Gaza deal and efforts to advance a long-term ceasefire. He said the absence of a peace process for the Palestinians means there will be no regional stability.

Two deceased hostages currently remain in Gaza: Staff Sgt. Ran Gvili, 24 and Sudthisak Rinthalak, 43. Gvili, a Yasam officer in the Israel Police special patrol unit, killed 14 terrorists before he was abducted. Rinthalak, a Thai agricultural worker, was kidnapped while working in the orchards.

On October 7, the Ors' home in Be'eri was set on fire by terrorists. He and his wife were murdered, but managed to save their two children, who were abducted and returned in the Nov. 2023 deal. Or was a devoted father to his three children – Yahli Or (18), Noam Or (17), and Alma Or (13). He served as the kibbutz cheesemaker.

The terrorist organizations claim the deceased hostage was found in central Gaza yesterday. Three deceased hostages currently remain in Gaza: Staff Sgt. Ran Gvili, 24; Dror Or, 49; and Sudthisak Rinthalak, 43.