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Who the Israelis Are Releasing in Return for Hamas' Hostages
(Wall Street Journal) Editorial - In return for the release of Israeli women and children abducted in illegal acts of war targeting civilians in their homes, Israel has freed more than 200 Palestinian prisoners, but nobody should think these prisoners are at all morally comparable. Of the 39 Palestinians released on Saturday night, eight were convicted of attempted murder. All were adults when they committed their attacks, and all were released well before the end of their sentences. The Times of Israel reports that "at least 55% of the 117 prisoners released during the first three days of the deal had been being held for violent crimes, including 10 for attempted murder, 13 for inflicting serious bodily harm, 19 for placing a bomb or throwing an incendiary device, seven for shooting at people, and five for assault." 21% were affiliated with a terrorist organization. Israel knows from prior swaps that freed Palestinian prisoners often return to the terrorist ranks, and no one should be surprised if those recently released take up arms again against Israelis or others.