The IDF announced the deaths of two hostages, Alex Dancyg, 75, and Yagev Buchshtav, 35.
The two were held together in Khan Younis and died several months ago; the IDF is investigating the circumstances of their deaths.
Their bodies are being held by Hamas in Gaza.
The men were abducted from their homes in Kibbutz Nir Oz and Kibbutz Nirim by Hamas on October 7th.
In the first weeks of the war, Buchshtav was held with his wife, Rimon Kirsht Buchshtav, who was released in November.
At first, she refused to leave without her husband until Hamas threatened to drag her out by force.
Hamas claimed that Buchshtav had died due to lack of food and medication and Dancyg had been killed by Israeli fire, although the actual cause of their deaths is still being investigated.
Hostages Families Forum said the news only creates added urgency to secure a deal that would release the remaining hostages.
Of the 116 captives who remain in Gaza, 44 are confirmed to have died.
