Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Feb 22: A wave of sorrow swept through Israel as the nation mourned the tragic loss of its youngest hostages—Ariel Bibas (4) and Kfir Bibas (10 months). The colour orange, symbolizing their bright red hair, became a mark of remembrance across the country.

On Friday, Hamas returned the bodies of the two children, leaving Israel in grief. “The colour orange will never be the same for us,” read a message from Israel’s official account on social platform X. In solidarity, official Israeli accounts changed their display pictures to orange, while the Israel Embassy in Cyprus lit up its building in tribute.

Across the world, support poured in. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in North Macedonia illuminated its building in orange, stating, “We reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful resolution, the safe return of hostages, and stand against violence on civilians.” Similarly, Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, also paid tribute with orange-lit buildings.

Meanwhile, as part of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas freed five out of six Israeli hostages scheduled for release. Tal Shoham and Averu Mengistu were the first to be handed over to the Red Cross in Rafah, southern Gaza, followed by Eliya Cohen, Omer Shem Tov, and Omer Wenkert. The exchange saw over 600 Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli custody.

With hostages still in captivity, Israel continues its demand for their safe return.