Karnit Goldwasser, the wife of IDF soldier Ehud Goldwasser, on Sunday morning spoke to Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) ahead of the weekly cabinet meeting during which a decision is expected regarding the proposed prisoner exchange deal.

Mrs. Goldwasser explained that she feels very uncomfortable with the reality that releasing Samir Kuntar to obtain her husband’s release is another blow to Tami Arad, who is standing behind her, supporting efforts to obtain her husband’s release. She stated that Tami prays that one day; she too will see her husband again.

“I do not know how the prime minister plans to vote,” she stated, admitting the vote is most difficult, adding that the day following his abduction in July 2006; Prime Minister Ehud Olmert telephoned her and stated he will do everything possible to bring Ehud and Eldad Regev home. Now she explains is his chance to make good on this promise.

Mrs. Goldwasser also explained she is well-aware that the Mossad and ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) are responsible for the nation’s security and must act accordingly, but she is responsible to do everything she can to bring the boys home and this is what she is doing.

“At the end of the day, we are talking about two individuals sent to the border to protect us and today, there are others doing the same. What message do we wish to send to them today? We must consider this as well together with contemplating what the nation wants – a feeling that our loved ones will be returned home in the event of such acts in the future.”

She concluded by explaining that during the past two years, she always thought Israel would have to persuade Hizbullah to release the two, but she never thought we would have to persuade ourselves to agree to such a move. She added that they are all hopeful the return will be a happy one, but even if it is sad, the following day it will be over and they can all begin living their lives once again.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)