News|Israel-Palestine conflictRemains of last Israeli captive Ran Gvili recovered from Gaza, says IsraelRetrieval of Gvili’s body could pave the way for next phase of the ceasefire, including reopening the Rafah crossing.

The Israeli military has confirmed the retrieval of the remains of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli captive in the Gaza Strip, concluding the obligations under the ceasefire agreement established in October.

According to a statement by army spokesperson Avichay Adraee, the National Centre of Forensic Medicine, in collaboration with the Israel Police and the Military Rabbinate, identified Gvili's remains. His family has been informed of the return for burial.

Gvili, an Israeli policeman, is believed to have died during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks. His return marks the completion of Hamas's commitment to return all 251 individuals, either deceased or alive, to Israel as per the ceasefire terms.

On the same day, Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Central Gaza reported receiving nine Palestinian detainees released by Israel.

In a subsequent statement, Hamas affirmed its commitment to the first phase of the ceasefire agreement and urged Israel to adhere to all provisions without delay.

The ceasefire terms include the unrestricted opening of the Rafah Crossing, the entry of necessary supplies into Gaza, the lifting of bans, and the facilitation of operations by the National Committee for managing the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the return of the last captive as a significant achievement for Israel.

Israel had previously linked the opening of the Rafah crossing with the retrieval of the last captive, although it plans to allow passage on a limited basis.

The second phase of the ceasefire agreement, announced by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, will focus on the governance of the Gaza enclave, demilitarization of Hamas, and reconstruction efforts.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.