Hamas Agrees to Return Remains of Four Deceased Hostages Amid Rising Tensions

Hamas has confirmed its intention to return the remains of four deceased hostages, as announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office on Wednesday. This decision comes in light of recent international scrutiny surrounding the treatment of hostages and their remains.

Details of the Transaction

According to Netanyahu’s office, the delivery of the remains will occur without any formal ceremonies. The announcement follows widespread condemnation of Hamas for holding a ceremony that included the coffins of four deceased hostages: Ariel Bibas, Kfir Bibas, Shiri Bibas, and Oded Lifshitz. Among the disturbing revelations was that the coffin meant for Shiri Bibas contained the body of an unidentified Gazan woman, raising serious ethical concerns.

Netanyahu’s Response

In a statement made on February 21, Netanyahu expressed outrage over the situation. He stated, “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.” Such statements highlight the ongoing complexities and emotions surrounding the hostage crisis.

International Outcry

Top officials from the United Nations have also voiced their disapproval of Hamas’ actions. Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, referred to the