Slain Hostages Arrive for Identification at Abu Kabir Institute

On Thursday, the four coffins of slain hostages Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with Oded Lifshitz, arrived at the L. Greenberg Institute of Forensic Medicine at Abu Kabir for identification. This marks a significant and sorrowful moment as Israel mourns the loss of these victims, with the identification process set to conclude with an official announcement to the families.

The coffins were transported under the watchful eyes of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) forces, ensuring their safe arrival. After the coffins were transferred to Israeli security forces in Gaza by the Red Cross, they underwent X-ray screening for security purposes, as confirmed by the military.

As the coffins entered Israeli territory, they were draped with Israeli flags. Brigadier-General Rabbi Eyal Krim, the chief military rabbi, recited Psalm 83, offering a moment of reverence. The IDF officers then accompanied the vehicles as they were transported to the final destination.

The event was documented by the IDF, with photos and videos being recorded. However, the military has made it clear that no images or footage will be released to the public without the approval of the families.

In a distressing scene earlier, Hamas transferred the coffins from a stage in Khan Yunis to Red Cross vehicles, with spectators witnessing the somber moment. The Red Cross, however, reportedly refused to participate in Hamas's ceremony, and there were reports that the coffins were locked with keys that did not fit.