A Sigh of Relief, for Some

As we finally see the almost unexpected release of Gilad, Israel finds itself with mixed emotions.

I think this editorial from the Director of the Harvard Center for Negotiations highlights the absurdities of such an unprecedentd deal in human life. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203914304576628644114718586.html?mod=WSJ_Opinion_LEFTTopOpinion

This swap serves as an example, if not also a reminder of the small-town nature of the tiny Jewish state. The Israeli Defense Force may be more proffessional than ever in its history, but it is still made up of the people, and every soldier is someone’s brother, son, husband, father.

This is a dilemma for many Israelis, such as those who have lost family in terror attacks, or the soldiers of the last decade who risked their lives and lost friends arresting these 1000 terrorists. This is truly an unprecedented day for Israel, and naturally comes with mixed emotions and some uncertainty.

In any event, welcome home Gilad Schalit!