Israel sets a dangerous precedent

'We too can demand release of men with blood on their hands'

Hamas said it was emboldened by Israel's decision to trade Samir Kuntar for Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev.

Gaza strongman Mahmoud Zahar said Hamas would take advantage of this decision "to release people Israel accused of having blood on their hands like Samir Kuntar."

Critics of the Lebanese prisoner swap deal have argued that swapping bodies for Kuntar would offer terror organizations an even greater incentive to capture soldiers and less of a reason to keep captives alive.

Government spokesman Mark Regev would not comment on Zahar's remarks.

[Associated Press]

UPDATE:

Hamas Hardens Stance -Yaakov Katz, Khaled Abu Toameh, & Ben Sales

An Israeli defense official explained, "They see what price we are willing to pay for bodies and think they can now get more for Shalit, who is alive."
(Jerusalem Post)


PA Leaders: Quntar a Hero -Itamar Marcus & Barbara Crook

According to the Palestinian Authority leadership, Samir Quntar epitomizes the ideal. Quntar, who crushed the head of four-year-old Eynat Haran with his rifle, is serving four life sentences for murder in an Israeli prison, but is almost certain to be freed in a prisoner swap with Hizbullah.

PA TV, controlled by Mahmoud Abbas, broadcast a picture honoring Quntar, depicted beside a map of Israel completely covered by the Palestinian flag.

Recent comments by PA leaders include: "The brave warrior, Samir Quntar." "The Palestinian people and the Palestinian leadership are standing behind you." "Your patience and strength are a lesson for us."
(Palestinian Media Watch)