Pro-Israel Activist Highlights Rising Antisemitism at NYC Memorial for Bibas Family

Zach Sage Fox, a prominent pro-Israel influencer, has shed light on the pervasive antisemitism he encountered while staging a memorial for the Bibas family in New York City’s Times Square. Known for his bold initiatives, Fox has gone undercover to document conditions in the West Bank, even interviewing individuals linked to terrorist activities. However, he describes his recent experience in Times Square as revealing the darker side of public sentiment towards Jews.

The Memorial Takes Shape

In a visually striking tribute, Fox set up a memorial in Times Square featuring photographs of Ariel and Kfir Bibas, two young boys tragically killed by Hamas. The installation included vibrant orange balloons, flowers, and a crib—colors associated with the Bibas children, who were both redheads.

Fox conceived the idea immediately after hearing that the remains of Ariel, Kfir, their mother Shiri Bibas, and family friend Oded Lifshitz would be returned to Israel in coffins. He shared with Fox News Digital, “I feel as though God gave me this idea. The vision of a crib in Times Square came to me within seconds.”

The memorial was intended to serve as a space for collective mourning and remembrance. Fox anticipated that while some onlookers would connect with the message, others might seize the opportunity to voice their opposition.

Unleashing Antisemitism

As expected, Fox’s memorial drew diverse reactions. While some attendees, including non-Jews unfamiliar with the Bibas children’s story, expressed sympathy, others vented their frustrations, leading to a tense atmosphere.

Fox remarked, “What shocked me was how many antisemites confronted us at the memorial, shouting ‘Free Palestine’ as a form of protest.” This reaction underscores the contentious nature of current geopolitical sentiments, particularly concerning Israel and Palestine.

During the gathering, Fox engaged in dialogue with various attendees, which led to an astonishing encounter where he publicly identified an individual as an antisemite on camera. “I have rarely done anything like that before,” he recalled. The reaction from attendees, coupled with the distasteful comments directed at the memorial, served as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles against hate.

A Controversial Video Sparks Debate

Following the memorial, Fox released a video documenting his interactions with both supporters and detractors, labeling those who protested against the memorial as “Jew haters.” These interactions have drawn considerable attention, prompting discussions about the state of antisemitism in public discourse.

Reflections on Trauma and Loss

Fox shared his thoughts on the broader implications of the Bibas family murder with Fox News Digital. He expressed that the emotional weight of their deaths surpassed even the initial trauma stemming from the October 7 terrorist attacks. “Hamas’ actions on that date had a shocking impact, but the accumulating pain over time has deepened within the Jewish community, making this loss feel particularly acute,” he remarked.

The Bibas siblings, Ariel and Kfir, were merely young children when they were taken by Hamas. Ariel was just 4 years old, while Kfir was only 9 months old. They were laid to rest alongside their mother on February 26, 2025. During the funeral, Yarden Bibas, the children’s father, poignantly eulogized both his wife and sons. Yarden himself had been taken hostage on the same day as the attacks but was later freed amid a ceasefire agreement.

Community Response and Support

Fox’s memorial catalyzed a community dialogue around the impacts of violence and the importance of solidarity. While the actions of a few vocal detractors were disturbing, they spotlighted the challenges that the Jewish community faces in the current socio-political climate.

In some respects, Fox’s initiative aimed at promoting awareness surrounding the Bibas family’s tragic fate serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflict and the innocent lives caught in its crossfire. It also calls upon all communities to reflect on the effects of hate and violence.

A Call for Unity Against Hate

As the memorial and the events surrounding it circulate within media narratives, it reinforces the pressing need for unity against antisemitism and broader hate-based violence. Indeed, Fox’s experience reveals the necessity for continued advocacy and dialogue about these critical issues that transcend individual experiences.

The struggle for peace and understanding requires collective effort and open communication among all communities. In light of the disturbing events voiced by Fox, it seems crucial now more than ever to stand against hatred in all its forms—ensuring that the stories of the Bibas family, and others like them are not forgotten.