Victims of Arab terror are taking to the airwaves, expressing their profound sorry, along with anger, but most of all, concern over the future of the state. Shoshi Gefen, a sister of a terror victim explains that this writing is on the wall – explaining that 1,000 murderers will be released to PA (Palestinian Authority) areas, resume their activities, terror attacks, and then the prime minister will explain “we must leave the areas, it’s simply too bloody”.

Gefen explains that we continue doing the same thing, the same mistakes, and the nation has paid heavily for the poor leaders that have approved such deals.

Gefen is certain that the prime minister has calculated his move, realizing this will boost his popularity while setting the stage for the uprooting of additional yishuvim, which we now know is a plan in the works.

Other family members of victims are explaining that this is a most difficult decision, one that is a “spit in the face of IDF soldiers” risking their lives daily, only to have these murderers released. Some explain that the issue is extremely emotionally charged, and while one can and should feel the pain of the Shalits, this cannot be the policy of a national government, leaders who must see a bigger picture, including concerns down the road, which far outweigh the tears of parents concerned for a captive son.

Brigadier-General (reserves) Effie Eitam, a religious individual who also served as a government minister, stated on numerous occasions that an army is supposed to be the buffer between the enemy and the civilian population. As such, there is a price to be paid, sometimes a heavy one, but an elected government must make responsible decisions, decisions that are not influenced by emotion and popularity.

It should be pointed out that in the past, Mossad and ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) leaders have strongly opposed such prisoner exchange deals, as have IDF chiefs of staff.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is flying his victory flag, boasting the success of his administration, reminding the nation he stated he would bring Gilad home. For the bereaved families, they ask what the prime minister will say when the same terrorists he is releasing strike again.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)