The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said today that Israel has received the list of Hamas hostages scheduled to be freed tomorrow. Three male hostages are set to be released. “A detailed statement will be provided after reviewing the list and updating the families,” the Prime Minister’s Office announced.
The three men set to be freed tomorrow are all alive, and their families have been informed about the impending release. It was later confirmed that Yarden Bibas, Ofer Calderon, and Keith Siegel would be among those released.
Yarden Bibas, 35, is from Kibbutz Nir Oz. A skilled welder, he enjoyed expanding his knowledge by learning new techniques, and he also loved music and stand-up comedy. Those close to him describe him as compassionate, caring, and light-hearted, always known for his warm smile and gentle eyes. On October 7th, Yarden was taken from his home in Nir Oz. His wife, Shiri, and their two sons, Ariel and Kfir, are still being held by Hamas in Gaza. Israel has expressed concern that Yarden’s wife and children, the youngest of the hostages, may no longer be alive.
Ofer Kalderon, 54, also lives in Kibbutz Nir Oz. He is a carpenter who specializes in kitchen design and is passionate about cycling, hiking, and flying model planes. Family and friends describe him as a warm-hearted, family-focused individual who lifts the spirits of those around him. On October 7th, he was abducted from his home along with his children, Sahar and Erez, who were later freed after spending 52 days in Hamas captivity.
Keith Siegel, 65, is from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, though he originally came from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, over four decades ago. As an occupational therapist, Keith dedicated his life to helping others and had a deep appreciation for nature, as well as enjoying time with his grandchildren. On October 7th, Keith was taken from his home in Kfar Aza, along with his wife, Aviva, who was released after 51 days in captivity.
In related news, Israel hopes that Hamas will honor its commitment to release the hostages without further violent disruptions like those that occurred yesterday during the release of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud, and Gadi Mozes. These individuals were surrounded by hostile crowds during their release. Israel expressed outrage and sent a clear message to the mediators that it will not tolerate another situation where hostile Gazans, with hatred in their eyes, push past Red Cross vehicles carrying the freed hostages, endangering their safety even during their release.
{Matzav.com Israel}
