As Israel braces for a painful and emotional day, forensic teams at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute have completed preparations to confirm the identities of 28 hostage bodies anticipated to return to Israel as part of Trump's plan to end the war in Gaza.
The convoy carrying the 28 coffins will arrive soon, marking the beginning of one of the most sensitive missions in Israel’s health system.
At the Abu Kabir Institute of Forensic Medicine, they will undergo a meticulous, scientifically guided process combining CT imaging, DNA analysis, dental comparison, and anthropological methods.
The institute, headed by Dr. Chen Kugel, one of the world’s most seasoned forensic pathologists, has assembled a large team of professionals — pathologists, lab technicians, radiologists, anthropologists, and DNA specialists. Each expert will handle a different stage of the process, with one shared goal: to identify every individual as swiftly and accurately as possible, with complete respect for human dignity.
The identification process will begin with full medical examinations and, where necessary, detailed CT scans.
How will they confirm the hostage identities?
Radiology specialists will analyze each image, comparing the results with past medical records to find unique anatomical markers. Alongside them, anthropologists will examine skeletal structures, injuries, and tissue degradation to assist in identification.
Forensic dentists will conduct detailed dental analyses, comparing jaw and tooth structures with existing dental records and x-rays. This step is considered among the most reliable methods for identifying remains, especially when only partial evidence is available.
In parallel, the DNA laboratory will extract tissue samples and cross-match them with DNA provided by first-degree relatives. The procedure is scientifically complex, involving advanced biological equipment and coordination between multiple teams working under time pressure. If an immediate match is not found, deeper genetic sequencing will be used to confirm identity.
Due to the lengthy period of captivity, some identifications may take longer. Experts will combine data from anatomy, weight, height, and other unique characteristics to achieve full certainty.
To support the staff through the emotional toll of this work, the institute’s psychological unit will be on-site. “You never truly get used to it,” said one veteran worker. “But knowing that each family will finally have an answer — that’s the only comfort.”
The full identification process is expected to take several hours to a few days. Once complete, results will be handed over to officials from the health and defense ministries, and families will be informed personally. Only then will the bodies be released for burial according to family wishes and IDF procedures.