Bibas Family: “Yarden Returned To An Unbearable Reality”

Yarden Bibas, who returned from captivity on Shabbos, cannot fully rejoice as he returned without his wife Shiri, and two children Ariel and Kfir.

Following his return, his family released a statement, saying:

“Yarden is home.”

“A quarter of our heart has returned to us after 15 long months.

“There are no words to describe the relief of holding Yarden in our hands, embracing him, and hearing his voice.

“Yarden has returned home but the home is missing.

“Yarden is a father who left his safe room to protect his family, bravely survived captivity and returned to an unbearable reality.

“At this time, we ask: Protect Yarden, Protect his soul. Respect his privacy and give him the space he needs so that his body and soul can begin to recover.

“Thank you to our beautiful nation. Thank you to our soldiers. Thank you and we’re sorry to all those who sacrificed their lives so this day could come.

“We will take a few days to reunite with Yarden, but we continue with hope and the call for the return of Shiri, the children, and all the hostages.

“Please continue to make their voices heard and emphasize the urgency of their return. Help us reverberate this now more than ever. For Yarden and for everyone. We won’t stop until everyone is home.”

In the helicopter from the Gaza border to Sheba Hospital in Tel HaShomer, Yarden was photographed sitting with his father and sister holding a sign stating: “I thank all of Am Yisrael for the support and assistance. I heard from my family that you fought for me. I want to say thank you very much. I appreciate it very much. It’s not taken for granted.” There was also a message for Yarden’s grandfather: “Happy Birthday Saba.”

Yarden Bibas on the way to Israel with his father and sister. (IDF)

Yarden’s release and the fate of his wife and children were widely covered in the international media. The headline below says: “The look in Yarden’s eyes reveals the pain.”