Mourning Oded Lifschitz and Ariel, Kfir, and Shiri Bibas (z”l) (2-20-2025)

February 20, 2025- After over a year of fervently hoping for the safe return of Oded Lifschitz and Ariel, Kfir, and Shiri Bibas, we are devastated by the official confirmation that their bodies were returned to Israel today. 

Ariel, just four years old, and Kfir, only 9 months, were the youngest among the hostages. Along with their mother, Shiri, they captured the hearts and attention of so many of us, becoming distinct symbols of the human cost of this conflict. Their tragic deaths are a painful reminder of the unspeakable loss that this war has wrought.

We also mourn the loss of Oded Lifschitz, a dedicated volunteer for Peace Now, who spent his life in pursuit of peace. His unwavering commitment to a just and lasting peace, working side by side with Palestinian partners is an inspiration. We will continue working in his stead, carrying the torch that may light the way towards a brighter future.

Through this war, and the unfathomable devastation and loss of life, certain moments will stay with us forever: the images of infants in Al-Nasr hospital; five-year-old Hind Rajab’s haunting desperate calls for help; Kfir’s red hair, pink elephant and round, smiling face; Ariel running in his Batman costume, cape flying freely behind him. These moments do not just weigh down our hearts, though of course the weight is heavy. They also drive us forward, compelling us to keep working for a better future for Israeli and Palestinian children alike. 

It is for them, for the countless others who have been lost, and for everyone still striving for that better future that, with shattered hearts, we will continue Oded’s work to push for an end to this conflict and a future where children on both sides of the fence grow up safe, free from the horrors of war.

Our hearts are with their families. May their memories be a blessing.