The Israeli military has confirmed the return of four bodies from Hamas to Israel, including those of Ariel and Kfir, the children of Shiri Bibas. Despite hopes, Shiri Bibas was not among the returned hostages. The Israeli army informed the Bibas family, including Yarden Bibas, Shiri's husband and father of the two boys, who was released earlier this month as part of a ceasefire agreement. The identity of the fourth body was confirmed as 85-year-old Oded Lifshitz. This development has been labeled a "violation of utmost severity" by Israel's military.
Shiri Bibas and her children have become symbols of the tragic Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The return of the bodies marks the first instance where Hamas has returned remains to Israel. This act precedes an anticipated exchange on Saturday, where six living hostages are expected to be returned in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Negotiations for a second phase are underway, focusing on the return of about 60 remaining hostages and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip.
On the ground, tensions have escalated following a series of explosions on parked buses in Bat Yam. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an "intense operation" targeting "terror hubs" in the occupied West Bank. Since October 2023, Israel has conducted intensified raids on the West Bank, resulting in hundreds of Palestinian deaths. According to the UN, at least 51 Palestinians, including seven children, have died since the crackdown began on January 21.
Amid these developments, US envoy Adam Boehler has issued a stern warning to Hamas.
"If I were them, I’d release everybody or they are going to face total annihilation." – Adam Boehler
Boehler described the situation as "horrific" and criticized it as a "clear violation" of the ceasefire intended to halt fighting in the Gaza Strip.
"horrific" and a "clear violation" of the ceasefire halting fighting in the Gaza Strip. – Adam Boehler
The Israeli military has reiterated its demand for the return of Shiri Bibas along with all hostages.
"We demand that Hamas return Shiri home along with all our hostages." – Israeli military
The ongoing conflict remains tense, with Israeli police discovering explosives on two other buses that did not detonate. Police spokesperson Asi Aharoni confirmed this finding to Channel 13 TV. The situation continues to unfold as both sides navigate this complex and volatile environment.