Thousands of mourners lined the streets of Rishon Lezion and beyond to pay their respects as the funeral procession for Shiri, Kfir, and Ariel Bibas took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. The Bibas family, tragically murdered by terrorists during their captivity, was laid to rest, allowing the nation to collectively grieve this devastating loss.
The somber procession began early, drawing the attention of the Israeli public who flooded the streets, many carrying orange balloons—a poignant tribute to Kfir and Ariel, both of whom had bright orange hair. Only invited guests were permitted at the funeral service itself; nevertheless, the general public was encouraged to stand along the route to show their support, proudly displaying Israeli flags.
"We see and hear you, we are moved and strengthened by you," the Bibas family expressed through a statement. They acknowledged the crowds lining the streets, underscoring the deep emotional connection felt throughout the community. President's Residence also paid tribute to the Bibas family, illuminating their building with orange lights as a mark of mourning. "Today, after 509 days, Shiri and her young children are finally being laid to rest with dignity in Israel," the President’s Office stated.
The Bibas family's harrowing ordeal began on October 7, 2023, when Shiri, along with her sons, Kfir, aged nine months, and Ariel, aged four, were abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz. Tragically, their lives were cut short during their captivity. Reports confirmed their murders occurred soon after their kidnapping, with IDF sources stating they were brutally slain by their captors shortly thereafter. Shiri's body was returned to Israel shortly after her children's, having initially, horrifyingly, been mistaken for another individual due to Hamas's handling of the situation.
Statements from family members during the funeral evoked the loving memories of Shiri, whom Yarden Bibas—her husband—empty of words for how to cope with the tragedy he had faced. “Mi Amor,” Yarden began, addressing Shiri directly. “I love you and will always love you! You are the best wife and mother,” he lamented. He fondly recalled their times together, and how her spirit of love infused their lives.
Yarden continued, emotionally expressing regret for not protecting his family, holding on to the hope they might return safely. "Shiri, I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you all. If only I had known what would happen, I wouldn’t have fired." His poignant words captured the immense pain felt through the loss of his beloved wife and sons.
Remarks from Ofri Bibas Levy, Yarden's sister, conveyed the shared grief of family and community: "You should not have been taken, and you should have returned alive." She passionately criticized the failures of leadership and military officials, demanding accountability over the incident. Indeed, the sentiment echoed through the gathering, with many attendees calling for justice and remembrance.
Meanwhile, Dana Silberman-Sitton, Shiri's sister, echoed the immense loss the Bibas family had suffered. She, too, demanded accountability from those who had promised protection but failed when it mattered most, lamenting the life they had built together and their hopes for futures now lost. "You brought more light and happiness to our little home. You came with your sweet, captivating laugh and smile, and I was instantly hooked!" she remembered of Kfir.
The community showed immense solidarity during the funeral, with many donning orange and holding signs of encouragement for Yarden Bibas. One attendee held aloft a poster reading, "Rest in peace, little Batman," referring to the young boy's purported love for the superhero. Another sign promised, "Yarden, we’re with you," conveying the community's unwavering support as he navigates life after unimaginable loss.
The presence of orange balloons and flags accompanied the funeral procession, as they made their way toward Tsoher Cemetery—the site where the Bibas family would be laid to rest. Friends of the family, including fellow residents from nearby kibbutzim, gathered to share their feelings, emphasizing unity against the senseless violence.
Notably, the public funeral was broadcast live, allowing citizens throughout Israel to participate remotely and honoring the Bibas family's legacy. It was mentioned how Shiri and her children should be remembered for the joy they brought to those around them, rather than the circumstances of their abduction.
The loss of the Bibas family has highlighted questions surrounding the safety and security of Israeli citizens, and many have begun to reflect on the broader ramifications of the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which marked one of the darkest days for the community and the entire nation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed the nation's sorrow, offering condolences to Yarden and pledging continued efforts to secure the release of all hostages remaining in captivity. "While we prayed for their safe return, we are left wounded and in pain. Yet, even in our grief, we will continue to pray for the day when we can gather together again, filled with joy and not sorrow."
This heart-wrenching event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of connection and community support during devastating times. For the Bibas family and all those mourning with them, the road to healing will be long, but the love and memories shared will be forever cherished.