Yarden Bibas' family provides update on how he really is
Yarden Bibas' family are ecstatic he is finally free, but his wife and young children remain hostages in Gaza, with Hamas claiming they were killed many months ago.


Yarden, who was wounded during his capture and separated from his family during the abduction, is currently receiving medical care at Sheba Medical Center. His release on February 1 came as part of a hostage-ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The fate of his wife and children remains uncertain, despite previous Hamas claims about their status being discredited by video evidence showing them alive after their capture.
This is the statement his family issued:
"To our incredible Israeli community,
We are deeply moved by your outpouring of support and the way you've embraced Yarden from afar. Your encouragement means the world to us.
Having Yarden back feels like we can finally breathe again. While he has lost considerable weight, his physical condition is stable and he's doing well. His strength and resilience are remarkable.
As Yarden begins his journey of recovery and adjustment, our hearts and efforts remain focused on bringing home Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir, along with the other 76 hostages who must not be forgotten.
We will be holding a press conference tomorrow evening. Until then, we kindly request privacy as we need this time of quiet and healing as a family."
The Bibas family case has garnered significant international attention, with Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide displaying their images and advocating for their release. Their situation was further complicated when they were reportedly transferred to the custody of the Mujahideen Brigades within Gaza.
Together with everyone in Israel, the Bibas family waits, hopes and prays for the welfare and release of Shiri and the boys.