Hostage rescue

Out of proportion

The recent attack in Gaza, which killed 210 Palestinians and injured more than 400, is a preventable tragedy. The proposed US-backed hostage deal could have ensured the release of all hostages without fatalities and established a ceasefire. The EU has condemned this as a massacre; Australia should do the same. Celebrating the return of four hostages at the cost of so many lives is unjust. All lives are equal, and disproportionate violence must be condemned.

Ehsan Khalid, Cranbourne North

Hamas can end the war

The images of injured Palestinians after the rescue of four hostages by Israel are disturbing. However, there are two questions that must be asked. First, why doesn’t Hamas release all of the hostages immediately? This would almost certainly result in a massive reduction in loss of life. The answer is clear – Hamas values the holding of the hostages more than it values the lives of its own people. Second, why does Hamas hold hostages in a residential area next to a market? The answer is clear – it is using its own people as human shields. The situation in Gaza is horrific, but it is in Hamas’ hands to stop the war.

John Rosenberg, South Melbourne