Israel recovers body of Thai hostage

Tel Aviv

Israel has recovered the body of a Thai national who was kidnapped by Hamas militants during the October 7, 2023 attack. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed on Saturday, June 7, 2025, that the remains of Nattapong Pinta were brought back to Israel through a special military operation.

Pinta was abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz and reportedly killed in captivity in the early days of the conflict. He was among the many foreign nationals captured when Hamas launched its cross-border assault. Thailand had the highest number of foreign hostages taken during the attack.

The announcement comes just a day after Israel retrieved the bodies of two Israeli-American hostages. According to Israeli officials, 55 hostages are still being held in Gaza, and more than half are believed to be dead.

The development adds to the growing tensions surrounding the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict, which has drawn international concern. The situation has also sparked diplomatic friction, with global leaders, including Brazil’s President, accusing Israel of disproportionate actions in Gaza. Meanwhile, the United States recently vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages continue as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza. Humanitarian agencies have also raised alarms over the worsening conditions in the region and called for renewed international mediation. The retrieval of Pinta’s body underscores the complex challenges of hostage recovery and the ongoing toll of the conflict on both sides. Israeli officials have reiterated their commitment to bringing home all captives, dead or alive.