**Israel Mourns Loss of Two Young Brothers**
The Israeli government and people are in mourning after the bodies of two young brothers, Kfir and Ariel Bibas, were returned from Gaza. The boys, aged nine months and four years respectively, were kidnapped on October 7 along with their mother, Shiri.
Their family is still waiting for Shiri’s return from Hamas captivity. “We cannot mourn until our mother is back,” said a relative.
The brothers became symbols of the Israeli people’s suffering during the Gaza war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described them as “beautiful souls” who were taken by “monsters”.
Israel launched a massive campaign against Hamas in response to the kidnapping and killing of the two boys, along with another hostage, Oded Lifschitz. The military action has resulted in significant loss of life among Palestinian civilians.
**Outpouring of Grief**
People in Israel and around the world have taken to social media to express their grief and shock at the tragic loss of the two young brothers. Images of broken hearts were shared online, while others posted pictures of the boys in their Batman costumes.
Benjamin Netanyahu was seen holding up a photo of the boys during a press conference, saying “Today is tragic” and that Israel would not forget or forgive the evil that took them.
**President’s Apology**
Israeli President Isaac Herzog also made a statement, apologizing for not being able to protect and bring back Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir. He described their deaths as an “agony” and a pain felt by the entire country.
As the bodies of the two brothers were returned to Israel, people lining the streets waved flags in mourning. The family’s aunt, Ofri Levy, spoke out about the tragedy, saying that the boys did not deserve to be taken and killed.
**Remembering Kfir and Ariel**
Kfir was only nine months old when he became a hostage, while Ariel was four years old. They were described as “playful” and “curious”, with Ariel being particularly fond of cars, tractors, and superheroes.
Their mother, Shiri, is still in captivity, and the family is holding out hope for her return. As they mourn the loss of Kfir and Ariel, they are reminded that “the smallest coffins are the heaviest”.
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