THE HOSTAGE DEAL: FIRST STEPS Today, the main story in Israel is the potential agreement for the release of hostages. This topic has been all over the news, but only today has it seemed more than mere speculation. There now appears to be a genuine possibility to make a deal, albeit only a possibility. The current discussion is focused on the first phase, which would involve a significant reduction in hostilities. In exchange, the sick, elderly, and women would be released. In return, a certain number of prisoners held in Israeli jails would be freed, although the exact number is unclear. Foreign media reports suggest around 2,000 prisoners in the first stage.
The Palestinian Authority has announced significant reforms. They include educational reforms to remove the incitement against Israel, judicial reforms to make the courts more transparent, and even some changes regarding the current policy of paying money to terrorist families. I am skeptical but hopeful that these changes can occur."
These reforms would be good, but I am also skeptical.
"REFORM IN PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY
The Palestinian Authority has announced significant reforms. They include educational reforms to remove the incitement against Israel, judicial reforms to make the courts more transparent, and even some changes regarding the current policy of paying money to terrorist families. I am skeptical but hopeful that these changes can occur."
These reforms would be good, but I am also skeptical.