Hamas handed over two caskets to Israel on 21 October 2025 through the Red Cross, containing the remains of Arie Zalmanowicz and Tamir Adar. The transfer occurred in the southern Gaza Strip and was confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces.
Zalmanowicz, 85, was a kibbutz founder and was kidnapped on 7 October 2023. Adar, 38, served as deputy security coordinator and was killed defending Nir Oz. Their identities were confirmed by military representatives after forensic examination at Abu Kabir institute.
The caskets were draped in Israeli flags and escorted by troops during a brief ceremony. The repatriation reduced the number of deceased hostages still held in Gaza from 15 to 13. This followed the return of Tal Haimi the previous day.