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From the Liveblog of
Thursday, February 20, 2025
IDF sappers checking caskets apparently containing slain hostages aren’t booby-trapped — sources
Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
Upon receiving four caskets apparently containing the bodies of Israeli hostages in the Gaza Strip, IDF sappers are checking to ensure that they are not booby-trapped, according to Israeli sources.
Additionally, the Kan public broadcaster cites two Israeli sources as saying that the caskets are locked without a key that can open them.
The IDF will also be checking if any personal items belonging to the hostages were returned by Hamas with the bodies.
The bodies will then be transferred to new coffins draped in Israeli flags for a short military ceremony, before being taken to Israel for identification.
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