ALBAWABA - Hamas has acknowledged the possibility of a mix-up in the identification of Shiri Bibas' body, following Israeli claims that the remains handed over did not match forensic tests. The group emphasized that it has no interest in violating the agreement, responding to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's accusations.
Hamas Denies Intentional Breach of Agreement
In a statement issued on Friday, Hamas dismissed Israeli allegations as politically motivated, accusing Netanyahu of using the issue to cover up internal divisions. The group reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling all obligations under the prisoner exchange deal and stated that it is investigating the Israeli claims seriously.
Hamas suggested that the confusion may have resulted from Israeli airstrikes, which targeted the location where the Bibas family was held, along with other Palestinian civilians. The group announced that it will share the findings of its review with mediators and called for the return of the body Israel claims belongs to a Palestinian woman.
Netanyahu’s Warning: “Hamas Will Pay the Price”
Amid the controversy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strongly worded threat against Hamas, accusing the group of deliberate deception in the exchange process.
“Hamas acted in an unthinkable and cynical manner, refusing to return Shiri Bibas' body with her children and instead placing an unidentified body in the coffin. Israel will not tolerate this violation, and Hamas will pay the full price for this act,” Netanyahu declared.
Israeli Military Confirms Body Misidentification
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Friday that one of the bodies handed over by Hamas did not match the DNA of any known Israeli captive, labeling it as unidentified.
On Thursday, Palestinian factions in Gaza handed over the bodies of four Israeli captives, including three members of the Bibas family (a mother and two children), who were reportedly held by the Mujahideen Brigades, as well as a fourth captive held by Islamic Jihad.
