Following the Hamas spokesperson's statement, French President Emmanuel Macron shared a message on his social media accounts on Tuesday, accompanied by a photo of the Bibas family members still held in Gaza.
"Shiri, Kfir, Ariel. The faces of innocence and love. The faces of eternal humanity that Hamas' barbarity will never destroy." The president added that France is actively working to secure the release of all hostages, including the family members. He emphasized that his country stands with Yarden and the Bibas family in "fraternité universelle."
Shiri.
Kfir.
Ariel.Visages de l'innocence et de l'amour.
Visages d'une humanité éternelle que la barbarie du Hamas, jamais, n'abolira.
La France, mobilisée pour la libération de tous les otages, se tient aux côtés de Yarden et de la famille Bibas. En fraternité universelle. pic.twitter.com/3UOxwFcg3v
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) February 18, 2025
The post drew significant criticism, with many arguing Macron had failed to adequately protect Jews in France from the surge in antisemitism since the events of Oct. 7, and criticizing his policies in light of the events. "Hypocrite," responded a French user. "Perhaps you should have spoken about them months ago when there was still hope of bringing them back alive? Your conduct since Oct. 7 has been disastrous," another wrote.
Hen Mazzig, a well-known Israel advocate, offered pointed criticism of the French president, stating "The comments prove how far gone many in your country are," referring to responses featuring the Palestinian flag or criticizing Macron for not discussing Palestinian children as well in his post. "They can't even show a shred of empathy to babies and their mother held in Gaza's dungeons for over 500 days. Instead of eradicating this hate from your society, you've allowed it to fester and now French Jews don't feel safe," he added.
"We have been in turmoil following the Hamas spokesperson's announcement about the return of our Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir this Thursday as part of the release of fallen hostages," the Bibas family said in a statement Tuesday. The family emphasized that while they are aware of the reports, they have not yet received any official confirmation. "Until we receive certainty, our journey will not end," their statement concluded.
