In what appears to be a brazen act of psychological warfare, the family of Liri Elbag, a 19-year-old Israeli hostage, received a sinister funeral wreath at their doorstep, an act that has since been linked to Iranian agents by the Shin Bet Internal Security Agency (ISA). The delivery of the mourner’s wreath bore a disturbing note that read, “May her memory be a blessing, the country is more important,” further exacerbating the distress of the Elbag family.
The wreath’s appearance has been interpreted as an ominous message, suggesting that Liri, kidnapped from Nahal Oz military base on October 7, is no longer among the living. This message starkly contrasts with the family’s—and the Israeli Defense Forces’—belief that Liri, whose DNA was recently identified in an apartment in Gaza, is still alive. The psychological torment inflicted upon the family by this delivery adds a disturbing layer to the already complex and painful experience of having a loved one held hostage.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum was quick to denounce the incident, emphasizing their commitment to “fight until the return of Liri, and all the other kidnapped, to their homes for recovery or a dignified burial.”
This cruel act, which left Liri’s sister Roni to express her horror and disbelief, has not only affected the Elbag family but also raised concerns among the general public and supporters of the hostages’ families. Roni’s reaction, characterized by incomprehensible shock and distress, articulated the emotional toll such actions take on those waiting for any sign of their loved ones.
Israeli authorities, along with the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, have launched full-fledged investigations into this incident, determined to uncover the truth behind the delivery of the wreath and ensure that justice is served. The Shin Bet’s announcement implicating Iranian agents dispelled earlier speculations that had pointed to local elements expressing dissent toward the government’s handling of hostage situations.
Further complicating matters, the florist involved, initially caught in the crosshairs of this scenario, recounted his hesitation and subsequent attempts to reach out to the sender who ordered the wreath online. The florist’s narrative added a human element to the unfolding drama.
Liri’s father, Eli Albag, expressed a profound sense of devastation in the face of this malicious act, indicative of the acute emotional impact on the family and the community at large. In the meantime, the Elbag family, like many others, endures the heart-wrenching wait for news, all while grappling with a cruel reminder of the potential loss of their beloved Liri.
Relevant articles:
– Family of hostage receives mysterious funeral wreath — initial Shin Bet investigation suggests Iranian agents
– Hostage Liri Albag’s family receives mourner’s wreath with cruel message, The Jerusalem Post, Sun, 07 Apr 2024 17:39:00 GMT
– Shin Bet: Iran likely behind delivery of funeral wreath to Hamas hostage’s family, Ynetnews, Sun, 07 Apr 2024 11:42:27 GMT
– Shin Bet says Iran was behind funeral bouquet sent to taunt hostage’s family, The Times of Israel, Sun, 07 Apr 2024 12:45:36 GMT