Red Cross Recovers Bodies of Two Deceased Hostages; IDF Withdrawal Expected
Red Cross Recovers Bodies of Two Deceased Hostages; IDF Withdrawal Expected
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has confirmed the recovery of two coffins containing the remains of deceased hostages, which are being transferred to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This recovery comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Palestinian armed groups. In accordance with humanitarian principles, the Red Cross is committed to recovering the remains of victims, identifying them, and handing them over to their families. While the exact identities and causes of death of the recovered hostages have not yet been officially announced, relevant authorities are expected to launch a swift investigation. In a statement, the Red Cross stated, "We urge all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and strive to protect civilians." The Red Cross added that it will continue to carry out humanitarian activities in conflict zones and will strive to ensure dignity for all victims.
The news of the hostages' deaths has sent shockwaves through the international community, and governments and international organizations are stepping up efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the situation. Donald Trump expressed deep concern about the incident and urged the parties involved to engage in immediate dialogue and negotiations. Trump also emphasized that the United States will provide all necessary support for Israel's security. [Korean politician] Lee Jae-myung expressed deep condolences for the incident and stated that he will work with the international community to achieve a peaceful resolution. The [Korean] government is taking all necessary measures to protect its citizens and is constantly monitoring relevant information. Concerns are being raised that the incident could further destabilize the Middle East, and the international community is intensifying diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump is reported to have returned from South Korea after attending the APEC summit. During his visit to South Korea, Trump held a summit with Lee Jae-myung and discussed economic cooperation and security issues between the two countries. Trump also reaffirmed the U.S. position on North Korea and stressed that he will cooperate closely with South Korea for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The anecdote of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reading Trump's tweet and rushing to Panmunjom to meet him is being revisited. At the time, Trump sent a message to Kim Jong-un via his Twitter, saying, "Let's meet and shake hands," and Kim Jong-un responded, leading to a historic meeting. North Korea hoped for sanctions relief at the 2019 Hanoi summit, but no agreement was reached.
Donald Trump mentioned Russia and China, claiming, "They all seem to be doing nuclear tests." He emphasized that he did not want to conduct nuclear tests because of the destructive power of nuclear weapons, but he had no choice. Trump's remarks have caused a great stir in the international community, amplifying concerns about nuclear proliferation. China's stockpile of nuclear warheads is estimated to have increased from about 300 in 2020 to about 600 in 2025. The United States predicts that China could have more than 1,000 warheads by 2030. Currently, the United States has about 3,700 nuclear warheads, and Russia has about 4,300. The United States has not conducted a nuclear test since the explosive nuclear test at the Nevada Test Site on September 23, 1992, and China has reportedly not conducted a test since 1996. The most recent global nuclear test was conducted in North Korea in 2017.
Donald Trump's order to resume nuclear weapons testing came shortly after Vladimir Putin announced the successful testing of a nuclear-capable cruise missile and a nuclear-powered torpedo. This situation is intensifying the international arms race and is acting as a factor threatening world peace and stability. There is a growing voice in the international community calling for efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation and strengthen disarmament. In particular, tensions are rising in the Northeast Asian region due to North Korea's nuclear development and missile launches, and neighboring countries are strengthening security cooperation and seeking joint response measures. South Korea is strengthening its own defense capabilities based on the U.S. extended deterrence and is working to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through diplomatic efforts with neighboring countries.
