Shame on them?

Submitted by Ron Gerskup (Canada), Oct 19, 2011 at 01:50

I have never served in the military and do not live in Israel. I cannot judge that what Israel is doing is wrong, I can only tell you how it looks to me and hope any justified criticism keeps this in mind.

Gilad Shalit had the strength to survive partly because he knew he would NEVER be forsaken. Unfortunately, Hamas knew he sould never be forsaken as well. The result? A poor start for any negoatiation.

What if the IDF made it clear to every soldier that the policy stands, but that the price has become too high to continue. We may have to let Hamas and their ilk call Israel's bluff once or twice. Israel will probably lose several brave soldiers at first. But soon Hamas et. al. will realize that kidnapping soldiers for ransom cannot get them 1000 prisoners.

What is the right number for Israel to give up? If I said zero, would my opinion have any merit based on my first paragraph? I think not. I do believe zero is the right number but bow to the knowledge and emotions of those who live this every day.

However, my lack of experience notwithstanding, I believe that this negotiation will lead to more kidnappings and larger ransoms. Since I admit that there will be future negotiations, then I submit that Israel get tougher and show these monsters that they will walk away. Israel can then make "better" future deals. Except for the first very few, soldiers and citizens would be better protected. Yes, we would have lost Gilad. I have no right to say it, but I am speaking of this as if it were not personalized. I know there is much emotion for Gilad. I feel it too.

I still remember that Israel never used to negotiate with terrorists and that they were upset with Britain (and the U.S.) for freeing Leila Khaled to appease terrorists 3 decades ago. How safe is Britain today? Is the US getting safer? Is Israel?

Let's not embolden terrorism or Islamism.

Having said that, my heart is so happy for Gilad and all who are ecstatic for Gilad. Bless him. Bless Israel.

Mr. Pipes, I am looking forward to seeing you in TO next week!

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