Israel Defense Forces Assess Hamas’ Claim as Negotiations for Truce Extension Continue
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are assessing a claim made by Hamas that the youngest Israeli hostage, 10-month-old Kfir Bibas, his brother, and their mother have been killed in an Israeli airstrike. The armed wing of Hamas, the Al-Qassam Brigades, made the claim without providing evidence, stating that the family had been killed in earlier Israeli bombings. As negotiations for a potential truce extension between Israel and Hamas continue, the IDF is working to confirm the accuracy of the information.
1. IDF Responds to Hamas Claim: The IDF released a statement in response to the Hamas claim, stating that they are assessing the accuracy of the information. They have also reached out to the relatives of the Bibas family to offer support during this difficult time. The IDF holds Hamas responsible for the security of all hostages in the Gaza Strip and demands their immediate release.
2. Israeli Official Expresses Hope: A senior Israeli official, who was holding a briefing at the time of the Hamas claim, expressed hope that the news was not true. The official stated that there is no indication that the family has been murdered.
3. Plea for the Release of Hostages: In an interview with Israel’s Channel 12, Jimmy Miller, a cousin of Shiri Bibas, made a plea for the release of the Bibas family. Miller emphasized that Hamas is responsible for their health and demanded their safe return. He called on Hamas to bring them back alive and well.
4. Bibas Family Awaits Confirmation: The Bibas family, through a statement from the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, confirmed that they have learned of Hamas’ claims. They are waiting for the information to be confirmed or refuted by military officials. The family expressed gratitude for the support from the people of Israel and requested privacy during this difficult time.
5. IDF’s Belief Regarding Hostages: Earlier in the week, IDF chief spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that the IDF did not believe the boys and their mother were in the hands of Hamas. However, the recent claim by Hamas has raised questions about their whereabouts and safety.
6. Background on the Kidnapping: The Bibas family was kidnapped by Hamas militants on October 7 from Nir Oz, an Israeli kibbutz. The attack resulted in the murder of more than a quarter of the community and the seizure of scores of others. The family’s father, Yarden, is also presumed to be in captivity.
7. Emotional Plea for Release: Eylon Keshet, a cousin of Yarden Bibas, made an emotional plea for the release of his family members. Holding up posters of Kfir and Ariel, he questioned the justification for using children as bargaining chips and appealed for their safe return.
8. Truce Negotiations and Qatari Involvement: Hamas’ claim comes as negotiators work toward another potential extension of the truce between Israel and Hamas. Qatar, which has played a crucial role in brokering the truce agreement, expressed optimism about an extension being announced.
Conclusion: As the IDF assesses the Hamas claim regarding the fate of the Bibas family, the situation remains tense and uncertain. The plea for their safe return continues, with family members and Israeli officials urging Hamas to release the hostages. The outcome of the truce negotiations may play a significant role in the resolution of this distressing situation. This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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