GILAD SCHALIT AT ANY PRICE? The Israel Public Debate about Prisoner Exchange

 

Israel Seminars' interactive discussion program explores the highly emotive issue of the recent deal to release IDF soldier Gilad Shalit, and examines some of the most compelling and intense moral dilemmas faced by the Jewish people, the Israeli population and its leadership.

 

Gilad Shalit was abducted from Kerem Shalom on the Gaza border at 5:40 a.m. on Sunday, June 25th 2006, and held captive by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Over the months and years, a huge public campaign in Israel constantly pushed to achieve his release.

On Wednesday, October 12th 2011, news broke of a deal to free Gilad. The Israeli cabinet approved an agreement in which 1,027 Palestinian terrorists would be released in return for the captured IDF serviceman. In cabinet, three ministers voted against the deal; in the final hours, the Israeli Supreme Court rejected appeals from families of victims of terror to prevent the exchange going ahead.

On Tuesday, October 18th 2011, Gilad returned home. Gilad was in captivity for 1941 days - over five years and four months.

It was a most emotional event for the whole population of Israel – the drama of Gilad Shalit's return cannot be understated.

 

In Israel Seminars' discussion program, we consider the points raised in the public debate and the compelling human dilemmas faced by the decision-makers over the five years of Gilad's captivity:

 

Why did it take so long to bring him back?

Why is Israel willing to release so many terrorists for one soldier?

Surely Israel is responsible for all soldiers drafted into military service?

The terrorists released in the deal had killed 560 Israelis. 60% of terrorists released in previous prisoner exchanges have returned to terror. How many more lives will be at risk as they are set free?

But if Israel doesn't free a captured soldier,
how does that affect IDF morale?


What do Israelis think about this issue?
What points are considered in the public debate?

How can classical Jewish sources help us decide?

What will happen the next time…?

 

This interactive discussion program will get everyone involved in exploring these dilemmas
and discussing how different voices in Israel approach the issue of prisoner exchanges
– the most dramatic issue on Israel's agenda.

 

JOIN ISRAEL'S LATEST CONVERSATION

 

Participants' comments:

 

“I learned a great deal by being pushed to consider different perspectives. This discussion was on such a high level (thanks to a talented facilitator who seeded the discussion with lots of historical background & facts). Thank you!”

Nina Butler, Pittsburgh, PA


“Excellent use of media. Excellent interactive techniques.”

Zeva Roschko, New York, NY

“Very thought provoking, raises a multitude of ethical issues/dilemmas. Enjoyed the interactive aspects of the program.”

Kara Spencer, Lansing, MI

 

“Excellent pedagogy. Thought provoking combination of spectrum & stories was very poignant. Happy to discuss how to get more students to your programs”

Participant, Princeton University, NJ

 

 “Very well done.”

Yael Aronoff, MSU Assistant Professor International Relations

and Serling Chair of Israel Studies, Mason, MI

 

“I found this seminar very interesting in all perspectives. The moral dilemmas are hard to navigate and the presenter addressed all very well.”

Participant, East Lansing, MI

 

“Interesting interactive program. Well balanced and engaging.”

Aileen Grossberg, Montclair, NJ

 

“The various considerations, thoughts, weighed in to the decisions about prisoner exchange. The presenter did a great job. I liked his calm and encompassing views.”

Participant, West Orange, NJ

 

“Used creative way to engage group in discussion and to elucidate different positions and dilemmas.”

Participant, Montclair, NJ

 

“This was well presented, showed the conflicting arguments and presented the moral dilemma facing Israel. It was also good because it elicited the participation of the group.”

Judith Wildman, Montclair, NJ

 

 

 

The program is suitable for: Synagogue and community-wide audiences, JCC’s, JCRC’s, Israel action committees, Hillel and college student groups, students at high schools & supplementary schools (religious schools etc.). Professional development sessions for lay leadership, federation staff, teachers, educators & clergy. Men's clubs, Sisterhood and Hadassah groups, golden ager groups. No prior knowledge required.

 

Duration: 90 - 120 minutes

 

Program fees:  $500 for single program or $1000 per day (according to your schedule, this could be 3 or 4 engagements in one locality) plus domestic travel costs and accommodation where applicable.

The presentation is also available as part of a Scholar-in-Residence Shabbat ($1600). Contact us for itinerary suggestions.

[UK fees: £300 for a single program, £500 per day, £800 for a Shabbat Scholar-in-residence plus UK travel and accommodation where applicable.]

 

Email now to book: info@israelseminars.org to ensure the best date for your group. We are taking bookings on a "first come, first served" basis.

 

If you have any questions, contact us at: info@israelseminars.org

 

Israel Seminars in your community - a practical guide 

Graphic Zionism! . Israel's Settlements . Gaza GameplanGilad Schalit Israel's Dilemmas

Musical History Tour . Jewish Family Names . Kibbutz 21C

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