Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed outrage and vowed revenge on Hamas after it was discovered that the body in a coffin bearing Shiri Bibas’ name and photo was actually that of an unidentified woman, and not the kidnapped mother of two.
On Thursday, Hamas was expected to return the bodies of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, as well as Oded Lifshitz. However, during the identification process, Israel found that the body in Shiri’s coffin did not belong to her.
Netanyahu condemned Hamas for their actions, stating that they had cynically refused to return Shiri and instead sent the body of a Gazan woman, in violation of the agreement. He vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and declared that he would not rest until they were held accountable.
Forensic findings and intelligence confirmed that Ariel and Kfir Bibas were murdered by terrorists in a brutal manner. IDF Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari described the terrorists' actions as barbaric and cruel, emphasizing the heinous nature of the crimes committed.
The revelation that Shiri’s body was not returned alongside her sons sparked widespread outrage, with world leaders and celebrities condemning Hamas’ actions. Rep. Ritchie Torres defended Israel's right to defend itself against terror and criticized those who questioned its response.
U.S. Envoy for Hostages Adam Boehler denounced Hamas’ actions as horrific and a violation of the ceasefire agreement, warning of severe consequences if all hostages were not released.
Despite calls for revenge, Ofri Bibas Levy, Yarden Bibas’ sister, appealed for the return of Shiri, emphasizing the family's focus on finding closure rather than seeking retaliation.
As Israel prepares to receive six living hostages on Saturday, the nation mourns the loss of Ariel, Kfir, and Oded, expressing sorrow for their tragic fate at the hands of terrorists.
