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Putting a price on human life. That’s the ultimate decision some say Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must face in prisoner exchange negotiations with the Palestinian Islamic group Hamas.
At the center of debate—mounting public pressure to release Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas since the summer of 2006.
We’re watching perspectives from The Jerusalem Post, The Real News, Israel Broadcasting Authority, and the Palestine News Network.
Hamas is reportedly demanding the release of around 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Shalit’s return.
Canada’s CBC News discusses the challenge facing the Israeli government.
“There is an expectation, particularly amongst parents, that the government will do everything it can to bring their soldiers home, and so the pressure on the government from its own population is very, very intense.”
Further complicating the decision, Israel Broadcasting Authority reports only 52 percent of Israelis are willing to meet Hamas’ demands.
The Jerusalem Post and Israel Broadcasting Authority bring us opposing Israeli perspectives.
(Jerusalem Post) “This release deal of arch terrorists is the violation of the first principle of any government in the world.”
(Israel Broadcasting Authority) “I think we’re a very special country by caring so much about one person to even consider having a thousand terrorists out of prison just to have him back.”
The non-profit The Real News talks with a Palestinian-American author who is skeptical that Mr. Netanyahu will cave.
“A prisoner exchange would be a real game changer, if it actually is able to take place. I’m less optimistic that it will. The fact is it would be the first time that a political faction would be able to win such concession out of Israel.”
But Ray Hanania, an Arab-American syndicated columnist, says Hamas isn’t asking too much.
“If Israel wants peace, it should surrender the prisoners that Hamas demands. Even those accused by Israel of alleged acts of murder. Israelis have committed acts of murder too. It would be the right thing to do. It would be a gesture of goodwill…”
When—and how— Hamas and Israel might strike a deal is still up in the air. In fact, Mr. Netanyahu said Sunday there might not even be one.
An editorial on the Palestine News Network sums up the unknowns.
“We cannot be sure of much. What we know is the indirect negotiations are continuing. Both sides are clearly interested in their success and both sides say progress is being made. As for when a deal is likely and what form it will take? Pass the tea leaves.”
Do you think Israel and Hamas will reach an agreement?
Writer: Christina Hartman
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