The IDF expressed serious concerns Saturday over Hamas's refusal to release Arbel Yehud and the Bibas family, including mother Shiri and her young children, as part of the ongoing hostage exchange.
IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari accused Hamas of breaching the agreement, stating there are "very grave concerns" for the family's wellbeing. "We demand certainty about their condition and their immediate return," Hagari said.
Hamas' withholding information about these captives has Israel extremely concerned for their fates. This is especially true about the Bibas children (10-month-old Kfir and 4-year-old Ariel) who are the youngest hostages – Their continued detention, despite agreements to prioritize releasing women and children, raises red flags about their status.
As reported by 'Israel Realtime', "Hamas sources told Al Jazeera that civilian hostage Arbel Yehud is alive and promised her release by next Saturday. However, conflicting statements from a Palestinian Islamic Jihad source falsely claimed that Yehud is a soldier, a misrepresentation likely aimed at stalling her release. Israeli officials maintain pressure on Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad to fulfill their obligations under the agreement, while expressing "heavy concerns" for the fate of Shiri Bibas and her children."
Hamas also claim to have provided Israel with proof that Yehud is alive, a claim which Israel strongly denies.
Four female IDF observers were freed earlier today: Liri Elbag, Daniela Gilboa, Karina Ariev, and Naama Levy. Another hostage, Agam Berger, who was captured from Nahal Oz base during the October 7 attack, is scheduled for release next Saturday.
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