The family of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas has confirmed the identification of her remains after a tragic mix-up with Hamas, igniting outrage and condemnation across Israel.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
Earlier this week, Hamas returned the remains of four hostages, including Bibas’ two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, as part of a ceasefire agreement. However, the body initially believed to be that of Shiri Bibas was later identified as an unidentified Palestinian woman, leading to widespread anger and grief among her family and the Israeli public.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the error as a “cruel and evil violation” of the ceasefire agreement, asserting that Hamas would face severe repercussions for the mishap. The Prime Minister demanded accountability and vowed that Hamas would pay “the full price” for the incident.
Hamas Acknowledges Mistake
In response to the backlash, Hamas admitted to the possibility of a mix-up, attributing it to the chaotic conditions following an Israeli airstrike that targeted the location where Bibas was being held. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Hamas expressed its commitment to the ceasefire agreement and pledged to rectify the mistake.
On Friday, the Associated Press reported that Hamas handed over Shiri Bibas’ remains to the Red Cross, which subsequently forwarded them to Israeli authorities. Bibas’ family confirmed the transfer, stating, “Last night, our Shiri was returned home.” They expressed their heartbreak, revealing that Shiri had been “murdered in captivity” and was finally back with her loved ones.
Context of the Conflict
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated dramatically in October 2023, following a surprise attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 250 others. In retaliation, Israel launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza, which, according to health authorities in the region, has resulted in nearly 47,000 casualties.
The recent release marked the first time that Hamas returned bodies to Israel under the current ceasefire agreement, which includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages and about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners.
Continued Hostage Situation
Hamas is expected to release six Israeli hostages this weekend, completing the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. Additionally, four more hostages’ remains are anticipated to be returned next week.
As the world watches, the tragic fate of Shiri Bibas and her children underscores the harrowing realities of the ongoing conflict and the profound grief experienced by their family. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents families of hostages, voiced its solidarity with the Bibas family, stating, “The return of Shiri marks the end of 505 agonizing days of uncertainty and immense pain.”
„`
