IDF Urges Hamas: Return All Hostages After Body Mix-Up

The IDF confirmed that a body received from Hamas was not of Shiri Bibas, marking a severe breach by Hamas. Ariel and Kfir Bibas, two young brothers, were identified among deceased hostages. The IDF demands Hamas return Shiri and all other hostages home promptly, expressing condolences to the Bibas family.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that a body returned by Hamas is not that of Shiri Bibas, labeling it a severe violation by the militant group. The IDF stressed Hamas's obligations to return four deceased captives under a standing agreement.

In a post on X, the IDF revealed the heartbreaking news that 9-month-old Kfir Bibas and his 4-year-old brother Ariel were identified as among the deceased hostages returned. After a thorough identification process, it has been established that Ariel and Kfir were brutally killed while in captivity in November 2023. An additional body, yet to be identified, was also received and determined not to be Shiri Bibas, marking a stark breach by Hamas, which had committed to returning four bodies. The IDF has demanded the return of Shiri Bibas and all other hostages still held.

Ariel and Kfir were tragically abducted with their mother, Shiri, from their home in Nir Oz. Their father, Yarden Bibas, was also abducted but later returned under a hostages exchange agreement in February 2025. The IDF has extended its heartfelt condolences to the Bibas family while affirming its commitment to ensuring the safe return of Shiri and all hostages.