The return of the bodies of four Israeli hostages marks a day of anguish for Israel. The handover by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups was politically charged, with posters highlighting the consequences of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Red Cross officials attempted to conduct the handover in a private, dignified fashion, but their efforts were in vain. The coffins carrying the hostages were draped with Israeli flags and prayers were offered at a military ceremony. The bodies are now being formally identified at the Abu Kabir forensic institute.