Hamas has declared that they will free Yarden Bibas on Saturday. Bibas, an Israeli father whose family has become a poignant representation of hostages taken during the conflict, will be released alongside Keith Siegel, a US citizen, and Ofer Calderon, who holds French nationality.
The news of Bibas's release is bittersweet for many, as his wife Shiri and their children, Ariel and Kfir, are still unaccounted for, raising serious worries about their condition. A harrowing video showing Shiri being taken with her children during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, has left a lasting impact on those following the situation, notably due to Kfir's young age at the time of his abduction.
Israel has requested clarification from Hamas about the status of Shiri and their children after the group released a vague report on hostages. The initial ceasefire agreements stipulated that living women and children should be prioritized for release, leading to mounting fears over the wellbeing of the Bibas family since they have not been included in prior exchanges.
The only children among the hostages not released in previous negotiations were Ariel and Kfir, raising suspicions about their fate after Hamas claimed they had perished in an Israeli airstrike. Despite these claims, Israel has stated they lack definitive intelligence to confirm such reports. Concerns grew when military officials indicated there are severe worries regarding Shiri and her kids.
The Bibas family has received significant public attention both domestically and internationally. Supporters have maintained their hope for the family's return, despite the troubling information surfacing. There are growing fears about the potential outcomes should the family be returned, as expressed by a relative who noted that the army is apprehensive about their condition.
On Saturday, 183 prisoners are expected to be released as part of the ongoing hostage-prisoner exchange under the Gaza ceasefire deal. While many Israelis are preparing for distressing news, some supporters choose to hold onto hope regarding the fate of the Bibas family, even as rational assessments suggest otherwise.
11 Comments
Rotfront
This is a victory for Hamas.
Matzomaster
This is a positive step towards peace. We need to start talking to each other if we want to end this conflict.
Karamba
What about the families of the Israelis who were killed by Hamas? Are their lives not worth anything?
dedus mopedus
This is a betrayal of our values.
ytkonos
This is a sign that dialogue is possible. We need to continue talking to each other if we want to build a better future.
lettlelenok
I am relieved that Yarden Bibas is finally coming home. He and his family have suffered enough.
dedus mopedus
This will only lead to more violence and bloodshed.
Loubianka
This is a sign that hope is still alive. We must never give up on peace.
Noir Black
This is a victory for the families of the hostages. They have finally been reunited with their loved ones.
Eugene Alta
This is a victory for all of us. We are all one human family.
Katchuka
I am proud of my government for making this difficult decision. It was the right thing to do.