OPINION:
Bravo to President Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, American diplomats and envoys and the Israel Defense Forces for the return of the living hostages to Israel.
But The Washington Times has gone too far too fast (“‘I’m good at making peace’: Israel-Hamas accord cements Trump’s legacy as peacemaker president,” Web, Oct. 13).
Within hours, it was clear that Hamas reneged on its promise of returning the bodies of all the deceased hostages — at once, not in tranches — to their families. Only four of a presumed more than 20 were returned, with Hamas claiming it had “lost track” of the others. Yeah, right.
Also, pronouncements of “peace” are premature. The exchange, had it been adhered to immediately, covered only three of Mr. Trump’s 20 peace plan steps. With the withdrawal of the IDF from half the Gaza territory as agreed and no one responsible for ensuring that Hamas does, in fact, disarm as agreed, the terrorist organization is out in the streets executing Gaza residents. On video. Hamas calls them traitors — a euphemism for being anti-Hamas and, possibly, amenable to a settlement with Israel. Several of the victims have been from one notable Gaza family.
What is “peace” when potential partners are gunned down by the supposedly defeated but still clearly present terrorist army? How will the agreement in Cairo — without Palestinians or Israelis present, let alone signing — be affected by a consideration of third parties that they may be attacked by Hamas as well?
While there is comfort for many in the release of Israelis unjustly kidnapped, starved and tortured for two years, it would be wise to withhold judgment on the status of “peace” in Gaza.
SHOSHANA BRYEN
Senior director, Jewish Policy Center
Washington
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