In a tragic turn of events, the family of Shiri Bibas, a 32-year-old mother, continues to endure heartbreak as they await the return of her body. Shiri, along with her young sons Ariel and Kfir, was killed in a series of dramatic incidents involving Hamas and the Israeli military. Initially, Hamas reported that Shiri and her children perished in an Israeli bombing in November 2023. However, subsequent investigations raised doubts about these claims, intensifying the grief and frustration of Shiri's family.
The Israeli military conducted DNA testing on a body that Hamas released, purported to be Shiri's. The results refuted the claim, confirming that it was neither Shiri Bibas nor any other hostage. This has led to further scrutiny as Hamas has stated that Shiri's body was "mistakenly mixed" with others who were killed and buried under the rubble in Gaza. The revelation has added another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.
The Israeli military accused members of Hamas of having "used their bare hands" to kill Ariel and Kfir Bibas when they were seized in October 2023. This harrowing allegation has left Shiri's family in anguish, as they still await the return of her body. As part of the first stage of a ceasefire agreement, her body was not returned to them, raising questions about the terms and execution of the truce.
Hamas has announced plans to release six living hostages over the weekend under the terms of the ceasefire. Despite this development, Shiri's family remains in limbo, anxiously awaiting any news about her whereabouts. They accuse the Israeli leadership of abandoning their loved ones, with Ofri Bibas, Shiri's sister-in-law, voicing the family's feelings of betrayal.
“It was Israel’s responsibility and obligation to bring them back alive” – Ofri Bibas, Shiri’s sister-in-law
Shiri's family is not seeking revenge but rather the dignified return of her body and that of other hostages. They have expressed deep disappointment with their country's leadership for what they perceive as a failure to protect their family members and ensure their safe return.
“Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, we did not receive an apology from you in this painful moment” – Ofri Bibas, Shiri’s sister-in-law
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by accusing Hamas of violating the truce's terms. He reaffirmed his commitment to addressing this issue and holding those responsible accountable.
“We will work with determination to bring Shiri home together with all our hostages – both living and dead – and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and malicious violation of the agreement” – Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister
As investigations continue into the mix-up surrounding Shiri's body, Hamas released another body to the Red Cross, claiming it to be hers. However, confirmation remains pending, leaving Shiri's family without closure.
Ofri Bibas emphasized the urgency of resolving this matter, highlighting the family's desire for justice and peace.
“Their cruelty only emphasises the urgent need to bring Shiri back to us, save the lives of the living hostages and return all the fallen for burial” – Ofri Bibas, Shiri’s sister-in-law