Forensic evidence in Gaza Lack of DNA testing equipment hinders the identification of martyrs

Mahmoud Ashour, spokesperson for the forensic evidence department in Gaza, stated that the lack of specialized equipment, particularly DNA testing devices, poses a significant obstacle to identifying the bodies of martyrs, leaving hundreds of families in a state of agonizing anticipation and constant anxiety.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Ashour explained that forensic teams are working around the clock, in cooperation with relevant authorities, to recover the bodies of martyrs from under the rubble and in makeshift graves across the Gaza Strip, as well as documenting, transporting, and burying them with dignity.

He explained that the majority of the recovered remains are skeletons or decomposed fragments, making identification using currently available conventional methods extremely difficult.

Ashour called on all international and humanitarian organizations to provide the necessary support to forensic teams in the Gaza Strip, including the provision of required technical equipment and assistance in establishing a database of missing persons. This would enable DNA matching, identification of unidentified remains, and an end to the suffering of thousands of families.