Israel Matzav

One good 'gesture' deserves another?

With 'progress' being reported in the 'negotiations' to release hundreds of Hamas terrorists in exchange for one kidnapped IDF corporal named Gilad Shalit, YNet reports that the Olmert government agreed with the 'Palestinian Authority' that in the event that Israel releases hundreds of terrorists to Hamas in exchange for Shalit, it will release hundreds more to Abu Mazen Bluff to boost his standing among the 'Palestinians.'

Palestinian sources told Ynet that during talks with former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's government, it was agreed that if and when a deal is sealed, Israel will also release hundreds of prisoners with the purpose of boosting Abbas' standing.

This move is meant to prevent Hamas from gaining excessive popularity in the Palestinian street by taking credit for the release of over 1,000 prisoners, 450 of which are considered 'hardcore'.

"The idea surfaced during the time of the Olmert government, and there is room for its implementation if the reports of progress on a deal are true," a source said.

"Leaving the PA behind will strengthen the position of those that believe prisoners, especially hardcore prisoners, can be released only by abductions," he added.

According to the source, heads of the Israeli defense establishment were aware of this understanding at the time, and there is therefore nothing preventing its implementation - not even the change of leadership in Jerusalem.

What could go wrong?

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 11:02 AM