Israel has released about 600 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas, including individuals convicted of severe crimes. The prisoners’ release prompts significant discussion around terrorism versus freedom fighting as nearly every Palestinian has an incarcerated relative. Notable prisoners include Nael Barghouti, the longest-serving political prisoner, and others implicated in high-profile attacks.
In a recent update, Israel has freed approximately 600 prisoners overnight as part of a hostage exchange deal with Hamas, following delays due to disagreements over public displays during handovers. This group included the longest-serving prisoner and individuals convicted of serious offenses, including a man responsible for the death of an American peace activist. Although the release was significant, the Palestinian prisoners club reported that 24 individuals detained in Gaza remained unaccounted for, pending future releases.
Released prisoners included 151 people sentenced to long prison terms for their involvement in fatal attacks against Israelis. Notably, the majority were to be exiled, with some returned to the occupied West Bank or east Jerusalem. Israel maintains that the prisoners are terrorists, while Palestinians often view them as freedom fighters opposing military occupation.
Among the notable individuals released were Nael Barghouti, the world’s longest-serving political prisoner, and several others linked to high-profile attacks during the second intifada. Individuals such as Bilal Abu Ghanem, who was convicted for a bus attack killing three Israelis, and Ammar Al-Ziben, sentenced for a bombing that resulted in significant casualties, were among those freed and deported.
Other released prisoners include the Aweis brothers, both involved in planning attacks during the second intifada, and Iyad Abu Shakhdam, convicted for his role in numerous Hamas attacks. Prominent figures like Mohammed el-Halabi and Zakaria Zubeidi, who turned to cultural activism post-incarceration, also returned home.
The context of these releases highlights the intertwined narratives of terror and resistance as perceived by Israelis and Palestinians alike. The situation reflects ongoing tensions following the October 7 Hamas attack that escalated the conflict and has prompted international calls for more humane treatment of politically held prisoners.
In summary, the recent release of 600 Palestinians by Israel as part of a hostage exchange with Hamas underscores the complex interplay between perceptions of terrorism and freedom fighting on both sides. Key figures released include long-serving prisoners associated with serious attacks, while discussions surrounding the treatment and status of other detainees continue to fuel tensions in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
