Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed disappointment and condemnation towards Hamas militants for handing over the wrong remains during the recent exchange of bodies. The body that was released by Hamas was identified as that of a woman from Gaza, not Shiri Bibas, the mother of two young boys whose bodies were returned earlier.
Netanyahu described the incident as a 'cruel and malicious violation' of the ceasefire agreement that has temporarily halted the conflict in the Gaza Strip. He warned that Hamas would face consequences for their actions, stating that they would 'pay the full price' for the mistake.
Under the ceasefire agreement, Hamas militants turned over four bodies, one of which was confirmed to be Oded Lifshitz, an 83-year-old who was abducted during a previous Hamas attack on Israel. The remains of Shiri Bibas' sons, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, were also positively identified.
The Israeli Defense Forces clarified that the fourth body handed over by Hamas did not belong to Shiri Bibas or any other hostage. Netanyahu emphasized the government's commitment to bringing Shiri home, along with all other hostages, whether alive or deceased.
'The sacred memory of Oded Lifshitz and Ariel and Kfir Bibas will be forever enshrined in the heart of the nation. May God avenge their blood. And so we will avenge,' Netanyahu stated, highlighting the significance of honoring the victims and seeking justice for their families.
