Israeli military expands search for hostages in Gaza with bulldozers

Israeli military forces have initiated expanded search operations across the Gaza Strip to recover the remains of hostages, utilizing heavy engineering equipment to accelerate efforts in areas recently vacated under ceasefire agreements. The operation represents a significant intensification of recovery efforts following the recent pause in hostilities.

Search Operations Beyond Withdrawal Lines

According to reports from Israel's public broadcaster KAN, the military is conducting searches beyond what has been designated as the "yellow line" - the demarcation boundary where Israeli troops withdrew following the recent ceasefire implementation. This non-physical line extends from southern areas of northern Gaza down to the outskirts of Rafah in the southern portion of the territory. Security sources indicated the operations are based on intelligence assessments suggesting possible locations of hostage remains in these areas.

Heavy Equipment Deployment

The Israeli military plans to deploy substantial engineering resources to support the search operations, with heavy vehicles scheduled to enter Gaza starting Sunday to expedite the process. The equipment will enable more extensive excavation and search capabilities in areas where intelligence suggests bodies might be located. Military officials have not provided specific details about the number of vehicles or the exact locations of the intensified search operations.

Ongoing Hostage Situation

Hamas officials have indicated they will also expand their own search efforts for additional hostage remains on Sunday. The terrorist organization has previously released 20 living Israeli hostages and returned 16 bodies as part of the ceasefire agreement that took effect October 10. Currently, 12 hostages remain unaccounted for in the ongoing negotiations and recovery efforts between the warring parties.

The expanded search operations occur against the backdrop of continuing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where local health authorities report the war has resulted in over 68,000 fatalities and more than 170,000 injuries since hostilities escalated in October 2023.