The Bibas family says it is “in turmoil” after Hamas’s announcement that the bodies of Shiri, Ariel and Kfir will be returned to Israel on Thursday.
However, the family stresses that it has not yet received an official update from Israeli authorities confirming that their loved ones are no longer alive.
“Until we receive definitive confirmation, our journey is not over,” the family says.
“We ask the media and the public to respect our privacy and refrain from contacting us about this matter,” the family adds.
Hamas claimed in November 2023 that Shiri, Ariel and Kfir were killed in an IDF strike. Israel called the claim cruel propaganda and did not confirm it. It said last month, however, that it has “grave concerns” for their fate. Husband and father Yarden Bibas was freed from Gaza on February 1.
Hamas’s Khalil al Hayya said earlier today that the Bibas family would be among four bodies to be handed over on Thursday.
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From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
