The Morning Edition Hostages free after 737 days, but is the war over?
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Oct 13, 2025 Amin Saikal, an Emeritus Professor of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies, joins the discussion to unpack the complexities following the release of Israeli hostages. He dives into the intricacies of prisoner exchanges and the dire need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. The conversation explores the potential ramifications of Trump's peace plan and questions whether Hamas will disarm. Saikal assesses Israel's strategic choices and the daunting challenges of reconstruction, highlighting the urgent need for effective governance during this turbulent transition.
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Emotional Release Of Long-Held Hostages
- The 20 surviving Israeli hostages held for 737 days were released, triggering public jubilation in Israel.
- Families and the nation saw emotional reunions, including twin brothers embracing after separation during captivity.
Political Credit For Hostage Release
- Amin Saikal frames the releases as a political win for Donald Trump and a humiliation for Benjamin Netanyahu.
- He argues military force failed where negotiation and external pressure achieved the outcome.
Negotiate Contentious Prisoner Releases Carefully
- Israel plans to release about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of the deal, with about 200 considered for high crimes.
- Negotiations remain on contentious names like Marwan Barghouti who could unite Palestinian factions.