On a historic day, Hamas has released all remaining Israeli hostages following two years of war. Twenty in total have been released, with an initial seven handed over in the first wave, followed by 13 more. Twenty-eight additional deceased captives are expected being returned, though there are reports that only four of the deceased have been transferred back to Israel at this point.
In return, 250 Palestinian prisoners serving long and life sentences are now being released from Israeli prisons as part of the first phase of the US-brokered deal. Additionally, over 1,700 Palestinians being held without charge are to be released.
Israeli media observed that many of the hostages, some of whom haven’t been so much as photographed in two years, are looking noticeably thin, and they were also forced to wear a quasi-military uniform as they were set free. Several videos have already featured teary-eyed reunions of hostages with their parents, families, and loved ones.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the freedom of all the remaining hostages in speech before the Knesset, also vowing to keep the peace. “Mr. President, you are committed to this peace. I am committed to this peace. And together, Mr. President, we will achieve this peace,” he said. He declared today “marks the end of two years of war.”
President Trump, having touched down on Air Force One in Tel Aviv hours before, also addressed parliament in Jerusalem, and was thanked by Netanyahu for his “pivotal leadership in putting forward a proposal that got the backing of almost the entire world.”
Sadly, I expect Hamas will not disarm – and they will need to be put down!
Like the rabid dogs they are!!!