WASHINGTON, D.C. — Adam Boehler, the U.S. Envoy for Hostage Affairs, expressed grave concerns over Hamas’ recent actions, describing the delivery of the wrong body as a “horrific” and “clear violation” of the ceasefire agreement. In an interview with CNN, Boehler speculated on the reasons behind Hamas’ decision, suggesting that the body of Shiri Bibas may have been hidden or disposed of due to the brutal nature of her murder. He criticized Hamas for their actions, stating, “If I were them, I’d release everybody, or they are going to face total annihilation.”
The situation has intensified following the identification of three bodies returned by Hamas, which matched the expected identities of Shiri’s sons, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, and the octogenarian Oded Lifshitz. Forensic experts confirmed that all three were murdered by terrorists within weeks of their kidnapping. In response to the tragic news, Argentine President Javier Milei declared two days of national mourning for Ariel and Kfir, who held dual Argentine citizenship.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Hamas’ actions, asserting that the delivery of the wrong body exemplifies the “cruelty of the Hamas monsters.” He highlighted the cynical nature of the situation, stating, “Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies, but they also put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin instead of returning Shiri alongside her children.”
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that the fourth body received was not that of Shiri Bibas and that no match was found for any other hostage. The military characterized Hamas’ return of the wrong body as “a violation of utmost severity” and a breach of the agreement to return four deceased hostages.
The hostages’ campaign, led by the relatives of captives, released a poignant statement expressing their horror and devastation at the news. “To the world, we say: ‘Do not look away. In Hamas’ hell in Gaza, 70 more of our children, brothers, sisters, and parents remain in captivity, enduring unimaginable terror. Do not abandon them to their fate. Save them from this nightmare,’” the statement read. The relatives expressed their pain and anger, vowing to hold Hamas accountable for their actions.
In a related development, Channel 14 reported that there will be no second phase of the ceasefire deal with Hamas. The report suggested that the Israeli leadership, with American backing, has decided to “open the gates of hell” on Gaza once the extended phase of the current ceasefire ends. This contradicts earlier messages from officials indicating that negotiations for a second phase were ongoing.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, with calls for accountability and the urgent need for the safe return of all hostages remaining at the forefront of discussions. The tragic events surrounding the hostage crisis highlight the complexities of the conflict and the pressing need for a resolution that prioritizes human rights and dignity for all involved.