Hamas to Return Remains of Four Dead Hostages Amidst Condemnation of Prior Actions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed on Wednesday that Hamas is set to hand over the remains of four deceased hostages. The announcement comes amidst widespread condemnation of the terror group’s recent actions regarding the handling of deceased hostages’ remains, specifically a controversial ceremony held last week. Netanyahu’s office also indicated that the handover is expected to occur without any accompanying ceremonies, a point of emphasis given the recent criticism.
Last week’s uproar stemmed from Hamas’s public display of coffins purportedly containing the remains of four hostages: Ariel Bibas, Kfir Bibas, Shiri Bibas, and Oded Lifshitz. The event was met with international condemnation, with many denouncing it as a cruel and exploitative act. The situation was further complicated when it was discovered that the coffin initially presented as containing Shiri Bibas’s remains instead held the body of an unidentified Gazan woman. This discrepancy fueled accusations of manipulation and disrespect towards the deceased and their families. Shiri’s actual remains were later returned to Israel.
Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a strong statement on February 21, condemning Hamas’s actions. "These Hamas monsters also cynically refused to bring back the boys’ mother, Shiri, and sent the body of a Gazan woman instead, in brazen violation of the agreement," he stated, highlighting the perceived deceit and disregard for human dignity.
The earlier spectacle involving the coffins drew criticism from top United Nations officials. U.N. Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, representing Secretary-General António Guterres, described the parading of bodies and the display of coffins as "abhorrent and appalling." U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk acknowledged international legal requirements regarding the return of deceased individuals’ remains, emphasizing the need for privacy, respect, and care in such processes. Türk’s statement indirectly criticized the Hamas ceremony, asserting that any handover must comply with the prohibition of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment and ensure respect for the dignity of both the deceased and their families. "We urge that all returns are conducted in privacy, and with respect and care," Türk said.
However, some critics felt the UN’s response was insufficient, citing what they perceived as a lack of decisive action in the wake of the October 7th attacks. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon expressed his frustration, stating, "For 16 months, Israel has been fighting a deranged terrorist organization that places no value on human life, especially if it is Israeli or Jewish – all while international institutions like the UN refrained from condemning Hamas and formally demanding the immediate return of our hostages."
While Hamas has provided a list of hostages whose bodies are reportedly being returned, Israeli authorities have yet to officially confirm the identities of the deceased. This verification process is likely underway to ensure accuracy and avoid further distress to the families involved.
The recent events surrounding the handling of deceased hostages’ remains have deeply affected the families and the Israeli public. Oded Lifshitz, one of the slain hostages whose remains were returned last week, was laid to rest on Tuesday. His wife, Yocheved, delivered an emotional eulogy, vowing to continue the fight to secure the release of the remaining hostages.
The burial of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas took place on Wednesday, with the three being laid to rest together in a single casket, according to reports from the Times of Israel. Yarden Bibas, the husband and father who was also taken hostage on October 7 but later released, delivered a heart-wrenching eulogy for his wife and two young sons. He expressed his deep sorrow and regret for not being able to protect them during the Hamas attacks. "Shiri, this is the closest I’ve been to you since October 7th, and I can’t kiss or hug you, and it’s breaking me," Yarden Bibas lamented, capturing the profound grief and sense of loss felt by the family and the nation. The emotional words underscores the heavy toll the conflict has taken on families.
The expected handover of the four additional bodies marks a somber chapter in the ongoing conflict. It also highlights the complexities and sensitivities involved in dealing with the aftermath of violence and captivity. The international community continues to monitor the situation, emphasizing the need for respect, dignity, and adherence to international law in all aspects of the hostage situation and the handling of deceased remains. The return of the remains, even without ceremonies, offers some closure.
