The third body received is not that of Shiri Bibas, the mother of Ariel and Kfir, as Hamas has severely violated the ceasefire agreement

Below is the official announcement by Israel Defense Forces (IDF):

Following the completion of the identification process by the National Institute of Forensic Medicine in collaboration with IDF representatives informed the Bibas family that their loved ones, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, have been identified.

According to the assessment of professional officials, based on the intelligence available to us and forensic findings from the identification process, Ariel and Kfir Bibas were brutally murdered by terrorists in captivity in November 2023.

During the identification process, it was determined that the additional body received is not that of Shiri Bibas, and no match was found for any other hostage. This is an anonymous, unidentified body.

This is a violation of utmost severity by the Hamas terrorist organization, which is obligated under the agreement to return four deceased hostages. We demand that Hamas return Shiri home along with all our hostages.

Ariel Bibas was four years old at the time of his death, and Kfir Bibas was ten months old at the time of his death. They were abducted with their mother, Shiri Bibas, from their home in Nir Oz. Yarden Bibas, Ariel and Kfir’s father, went out to protect them and was abducted prior to the abduction of Shiri and the children. Yarden returned as part of the agreement for the return of the hostages on February 1, 2025.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Bibas family during this incredibly difficult time and remain committed to doing everything possible to ensure Shiri and all the hostages are brought home at the earliest opportunity.

We are also heartbroken to announce that the body of hostage Oded Lifshitz (83) has been identified.

A devoted husband to Yocheved for 63 years, father of four, journalist, kibbutz leader, and peace activist for six decades, Oded dedicated his life to the pursuit of peace. He found joy in playing the piano, teaching his grandchildren and kibbutz children Israeli folk songs.

On October 7, terrorists stormed his and Yocheved’s home. As Oded held the shelter door shut, they shot through it, wounding him.

He was taken alive – only to be murdered in captivity.

May his memory be a blessing.

Consulate General of Israel in Hong Kong

Feb 21, 2025

info@hongkong.mfa.gov.il

(Photos of Ariel (left) and Kfir Bibas provided by Israeli Consulate-General)