Yarden Bibas Delivers Heartbreaking Speech at Family Funeral

During a poignant ceremony, Yarden Bibas, a 35-year-old man, delivered a deeply emotional speech mourning the tragic loss of his family, who were victims of a violent attack attributed to Hamas. The event took place as he said farewell to his wife, Shiri, aged 32, and their two sons, Ariel, aged four, and Kfir, a mere nine months old.

Despite the overwhelming grief surrounding him, Bibas spoke with a love that transcended the tragedy. His voice faltered several times, choked with emotion, as he stood supported by his sister, who sought to hide her sorrow behind sunglasses. Bibas, who himself endured 484 days as a hostage of Palestinian militants, drew upon his enduring love for his family to convey his sentiments.

In front of a large crowd of mourners, Bibas began reminiscing about his relationship with Shiri, expressing regret that he could not protect them. He recalled the first time he called her 'mi amor,' admitting that he had loved her long before those words were spoken. He described her as his everything, the ideal partner and mother, and reflected on the importance of their shared decisions.

He recounted a moment of vulnerability when they were in a shelter, discussing whether to fight or surrender. Shiri's decision to fight inspired him, yet he expressed profound sorrow over his inability to shield his loved ones from harm. Bibas emphasized the depth of his loss, stating that he misses Shiri's presence and guidance in his life.

The family had been taken hostage during the violent events of October 7, 2023, and following a hostage exchange on February 1, Bibas was released but found that he would never see his wife and children alive again. The bodies of his sons were returned to him on February 20, with Shiri's remains handed over later.

In a heartfelt tribute, Bibas urged Shiri to watch over him as he navigates life without her, expressing his yearning for her to be by his side during difficult decisions. He spoke tenderly of his sons, lamenting the moments they would never share again and the joy they brought into his life.

Bibas's message to Ariel and Kfir reflected a father's love and sorrow, filled with memories of laughter and play. He expressed hope that his children are in peace, bringing joy to those around them in the afterlife. His words painted a vivid picture of a loving family that was tragically torn apart.

The funeral concluded with the family laid to rest in a single grave, a symbol of their unbreakable bond, surrounded by a sea of flowers from grieving friends and community members.