The Gaza ceasefire held Thursday, strained by missing hostages’ remains and sporadic violence. U.N. Ambassador Mike Waltz said U.S. personnel, including a task force and 200 troops, will help recover 19 bodies still unreturned, among them two Americans. Hamas handed over two more bodies, nine in total, but says specialized equipment is needed. Israeli families and officials demand faster returns, while senior U.S. advisers urge patience. Turkey has offered search-and-rescue support; no deployment confirmed. As the Red Cross transfers Palestinian remains amid torture allegations, Capt. Daniel Peretz was laid to rest, underscoring families’ wrenching grief.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.