Officials announced on Wednesday that in exchange for a video of Gilad Shalit, Israel will be releasing 20 female Arab security prisoners. According to German officials, who mediated the deal, the video will bring indisputable proof that the soldier is alive as he prepares to send a fourth Sukkos in captivity. Reports indicate this deal will be carried out on Friday.

Unconfirmed reports state the list will include terrorists affiliated with Hamas, Islamic Jihad, Fatah and other terror organizations.

Ynet reports German mediators have already viewed the video and they are satisfied it does indeed prove Shalit is alive.

Critics such as MK (Ichud HaLeumi) Dr. Michael Ben-Ari state they are relieved to hear the family of Gilad Shalit will receive proof he is alive, but questions the wisdom of such deals, which seemingly raise the price for every bit of information as well as serving to encourage terrorists to step-up efforts to abduct soldiers.

The news of the deal is accompanied with credible reports that while negotiations for Shalit’s release continue, there are no signs of an imminent deal that will bring him home.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)