Hamas confirms deaths of youngest hostages aged 2 and 5 along with their mother

Hamas has confirmed the deaths of its youngest hostages, Kfir and Ariel Bibas, aged 2 and 5, along with their mother. They were kidnapped on October 7, 2023. Israel has not confirmed the news but expressed grave concerns. Hamas claims the family died in an Israeli airstrike. The father, Yarden Bibas, was released earlier this month. The Bibas family's situation has resonated deeply in Israel, with Kfir becoming a symbol of the hostages. An exchange involving six hostages is expected to follow an agreement allowing Israel to send aid into Gaza. Further negotiations are planned for a larger release of captives, contingent on a lasting truce and Israeli withdrawal.