Page 65 - Ebook hey-vav part 1 140118 HTML5

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The claims of those opposing captive deals on the other
side's defeat – are absurd

One claim, which is being repeatedly made in this argument, is
the claim that Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners will be
perceived by the other side as its submission and defeat and will
encourage Hamas, as it has previously encouraged Hizbullah, to
keep kidnapping Israelis to be used as bargaining chips. Some
even claim that an Israeli submission to the enemy's demands
will bring an escalation in violence employed by terrorist
organizations against Israel.
But these claims don't necessarily have anything to rely on. It
seems then, that the argument about the expected deal for Gil'ad
Shalit's release reflects different approaches to questions like
what are the expected ramifications of such a deal on the Israeli
society from within; on its strength and self image; and of
course, on the image of its leaders and commanders of the IDF.
The problem is not necessarily the question of what are the
ramifications of one step or another on the conduct and actions
of the other side, meaning that of the Palestinian terror
organizations.
The media and propagandistic gain the terrorist organizations
make off of kidnapping Israeli soldiers usually relies on the
success of actually executing the kidnapping and on abusing the
families. A captive-exchange deal brings this victory of the
mind to an end.

The real questions the affair raises relate to inner-Israeli
challenges

Is worrying about the image of the Israeli leaders, fearing that
they would be accused of being defeatist or alternately,
stubborn, insensitive and missing an opportunity – is that what
should guide them in making decisions in this sensitive matter?
The question which is raised by the developing deal for the

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