The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Unlike last weekend’s hostage handover in Gaza, today’s events have been largely motivated by Hamas.
The four girls emerged from vehicles guarded by masked gunmen and were taken to a prepared area, where a Red Cross official had just signed documents with a Hamas fighter.
The hijackers were seen wearing similar clothing and holding identification badges around their necks – while masked gunmen stood nearby, each with their own type of permit for the event.
Near the stage with its desk, chairs, and flag was a machine gun.
As hundreds of Hamas fighters and Palestinian civilians watched, the four Israeli women were seen smiling, holding hands and greeting each other. Who knows what they were thinking as the emotions of their 15 months of pain finally came to an end.
Hamas – which had given each of the women documents and bags to carry their belongings – hopes that this image will show unity and strength.
The message was undoubtedly aimed at Palestinians who hope to one day run Gaza, and Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has had a history of manipulating to destroy the group after the October 7 attacks.
For Israel, there is great relief that the other four hostages are safe. Last week, many felt anger that the first three women to be released were removed without any formal procedure.
Today, with very different events, there will be outrage – but this time over the public display of these women in their final moments before being granted their freedom.
