The Unwavering Voice of Ofri Bibas Levy
In a heartfelt and determined outcry, Ofri Bibas Levy, the aunt of Kfir and Ariel Bibas – child hostages taken by Hamas – recently voiced her despair and frustration over the international community’s lack of response to her family’s tragic situation. Her opinions were powerfully shared in a CNN opinion piece, questioning the global populace’s moral compass when innocent children become pawns in the ruthless game of terrorism.
Why It Matters
The kidnapping of Kfir, 1, and Ariel, 4, accompanied by their mother, Shiri, into the heart of Gaza, rips open the glaring issue of child hostages and the imperative to protect innocent lives from the clutches of terror. Rejected from release during the November ceasefire-hostage exchange, the brothers’ plight becomes a heartbreaking emblem of the pathos and cruelty wielded by Hamas against Israel and its people. Ofri Bibas Levy’s pleas illuminate a broader call to action for the world to awaken and confront such barbarism head-on.
The Indelible Impact of Silence
“They hear your silence, and they are taking notes.” This poignant reflection by Ofri Bibas Levy underscores a foreboding reality – the mute stance of international bodies and communities inadvertently enables terrorists’ agenda, emboldening them further. This chilling state of affairs shakes the very foundations of international norms on human rights and child protection, demanding an urgent rallying cry for governmental action and public awareness surrounding the issue of child hostages and terrorism.
The Chilling Reality for the Bibas Family
The distressing ordeal extends beyond the children to Yarden Bibas, Ofri’s brother and father to Kfir and Ariel, who was also cruelly kidnapped and subjected to psychological torture. This manipulation of human lives as leverage elevates the urgency in the global call for condemnation and action against such inhumane acts.
Call to Global Solidarity
In her moving appeal to the world, Ofri Bibas Levy advocates for a surge in public advocacy, demanding attention at the legislative halls and thorough discussion platforms to ensure the safe return of hostages and stifle the vile trade of innocent lives. “It shouldn’t need to be said that this is not the world our children should grow up in,” she urges, encapsulating a vision of resilience and hope against the shadows of terror. The nurturing of a world where the innocence of childhood remains inviolate is at the crux of her and many Israelis’ yearning.
Final Thoughts
As the international community witnesses the impassioned plea of Ofri Bibas Levy, let it serve as a clarion call to break the cycle of complacency and herald a unified stand against terrorism and the abominable practice of holding children hostage. The healing of wounds and prevention of future atrocities hinges upon every nation’s, every individual’s voice against injustice – for the Bibas family and for humanity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.