Transfer of Remains to Israeli Authorities

The terror organization Hamas facilitated the transfer of a coffin, which purportedly contained the remains of Shiri Bibas, to the International Red Cross. Following this, the Red Cross relayed the coffin to Israeli defense forces, where the body will undergo identification at Israel’s National Forensic Institute.

This transfer follows Israel’s unwavering demand for the return of Bibas, especially after discrepancies were highlighted in a previous transfer that occurred just a day prior, on Thursday.

Initial Misidentification Sparks Outrage

On Thursday, Hamas had claimed the return of Bibas alongside three other hostages. However, forensic experts examining the remains could only confirm the bodies of her two children—four-year-old Ariel and ten-month-old Kfir—both of whom Israel alleges were murdered by Hamas terrorists.

Compounding the tragedy, authorities discovered that a coffin bearing the name of Shiri Bibas actually contained the remains of an unidentified woman, igniting widespread outrage and disbelief across Israel and beyond.

The fourth recovered body is speculated to belong to Oded Lifshitz, an 84-year-old retired journalist and activist, further compounding the emotional toll this tragedy has inflicted on the families involved.

Israel Demands Accountability for the Atrocities

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) maintain close contact with the Bibas family, supporting them during this harrowing time. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, IDF Spokesperson, expressed the deep sorrow and anger felt by the nation: “For months, we prayed for the Bibas babies to come home. Yesterday, our worst nightmare was confirmed.”

He added, “Kfir and Ariel were murdered in cold blood. The terrorists didn’t shoot them—they killed them with their bare hands. Then, they committed horrific acts to cover up their crimes.” This assertion underscores the extreme brutality attributed to Hamas in the ongoing conflict.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement condemning the actions of Hamas as “another undeniable testament to the unfathomable brutality of those who continue to hold our loved ones captive.” Their words amplify the anguish and despair felt by families embroiled in this violent ordeal.

Condemnation from Israeli Leaders

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not hold back as he expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the incidents. “Today is a tragic day… Four-year-old Ariel Bibas, his baby brother Kfir, and 84-year-old Oded Lifshitz were brutally murdered by Hamas savages,” he lamented, echoing the collective grief experienced across Israel.

Further amplifying this sentiment, Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, condemned Hamas’ handling of Bibas’ remains. He referred to the transfer as “a worthless shipment,” labeling it “a new low, an evil and cruelty with no parallel” in their ongoing conflict.

Family’s Tragic Fate After October 7 Attack

The Bibas family was among many devastated by the brutal assault carried out by Hamas during their attack on October 7, 2023. In a desperate attempt to protect his family, Kfir and Ariel’s father, Yarden Bibas, was initially seized. After enduring unimaginable pain, he was later released on February 1 as part of a hostage exchange deal, leaving the family emotionally shattered.

With the confirmation of Shiri Bibas’ fate now weighing heavily on their hearts, Netanyahu vowed that Hamas would face repercussions for their unspeakable acts: “God will save their blood, and we will take revenge, too,” he declared, indicating the resolve of the Israeli government to seek justice for the atrocities committed against its citizens.