2,233 Shabtai - Iron Swords-A Return to the Approach of National Considerations in the Issue of Prisoners.

Swords of Iron: The Problem of Hostages and Missing Persons By Col. (res.) Shai Shabtai  BESA Center Perspectives Paper No. 2,233, November 19, 2023  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Until the end of the seventies, Israel's policy on hostages, prisoners and missing persons was based on national considerations. [...] It's time to make a fundamental change in Israel's policy on this issue and readopt the Entebbe Doctrine, which can save the lives of the current hostages and prevent the taking of more in the future. [...] Damage to Israeli strategy: Israel’s strategy in the Swords of Iron war is based on the collapse of the Hamas organization in Gaza and the neutralizing of its leadership and military capabilities. [...] The erosion of the positions of Israel and the US in the Middle East: After the events of October 7, the collapse of Hamas is essential for the restoration of Israel's position – and, consequently, the standing of the United States - in the Middle East. [...] Enhancing international and Israeli pressure on countries engaging in dialogue with the Hamas leadership to secure the release of the hostages, with an emphasis on foreign nationals, civilians in general, the elderly, women, and children.