Hamas Announces Return of 4 Israeli Hostages, Including the Bibas Family, on Thursday
In a significant development, Hamas has announced that it will return four Israeli hostages to their families on Thursday, including the Bibas family, who have been held captive for several years.
According to reports, the Bibas family, including Naama, 16, and Eitan, 7, were kidnapped by Hamas in August 2011. They were among a total of four Israeli civilians, including a 31-year-old man, who were kidnaped by the militant group during a family vacation in the Gaza Strip.
The news of the upcoming release comes after months of secret negotiations between Hamas and Israeli authorities, with the help of Egyptian mediators. While the exact terms of the release have not been disclosed, it is believed that Israel has agreed to release several Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the safe return of the hostages.
The Bibas family’s ordeal has been marked by numerous twists and turns, including reports of abuse and mistreatment while in captivity. Their families have been on a mission to ensure their safe return, and their release has been met with wide relief and joy.
"We are relieved and grateful that Naama and Eitan will finally be coming home," said a spokesperson for the Bibas family. "We can only imagine the joy and excitement they will feel when they see their families and friends again. We are grateful to all those who have worked tirelessly to make this day possible."
The announcement comes at a time when relations between Israel and Palestine have been strained, with both sides engaged in a long-standing conflict. However, the release of the hostages is seen as a positive step towards normalizing ties between the two sides.
The United States has also welcomed the news, with a State Department spokesperson saying, "We applaud the efforts of all those involved in securing the release of these four Israeli hostages, including the Bibas family. Their safe return is a testament to the importance of diplomacy and the power of perseverance."
While the exact timing of the release has not been confirmed, it is believed that the hostages will be handed over to Israeli authorities on Thursday, marking a major breakthrough in the long-standing conflict.
As the news of the hostages’ release spreads, Israelis and Palestinians alike are holding their breath in anticipation of the families’ emotional reunions. For the Bibas family, this is a moment they have been waiting years for, and one that will bring an end to their ordeal.
