The Israel Prison Service (IPS) dressed the terrorists in shirts bearing a biblical message as they were released as part of the hostage deal under Operation “Wins of Freedom”. Overnight between Wednesday and Thursday, the terrorists were outfitted with shirts displaying the quote: “I will pursue my enemies and overtake them, and I will not turn back until they are destroyed” —Psalm 18:38
Mass Release of Terrorists Under the Deal
As part of the deal, hundreds of guilty terrorists were transferred from several Israeli prisons to holding centers at Ofer and Ketziot Prisons before being released to various destinations. Among the released prisoners were 151 terrorists serving life sentences, including:
-43 released to Judea, Samaria, and East Jerusalem
-97 deported to foreign countries
-11 transferred to the Gaza Strip
-445 Gazan prisoners who were arrested after October 7, including 24 women and minors
“A Message of Strength: We Will Not Forget, We Will Not Forgive”
The IPS initiative is not new—in the past, released terrorists were given shirts with the inscription: “We will not forget, we will not forgive.” This was done under the directive of IPS Commissioner Kobi Yaakobi, with the goal of conveying a message of strength.
IPS officials clarified that this was a strategic decision aimed at solidifying a firm narrative both locally and internationally. “We want to establish the narrative and achieve a dual effect: an international message, showing that the terrorists are released from a position of strength, and a message to the Israeli public: Despite releasing terrorists with blood on their hands, we will never forget.”
Reports on social media indicated that after their release, terrorists filmed themselves burning the shirts, sparking criticism and controversy.
The Israeli Prison Service’s symbolic move reinforces a strong message of resilience and deterrence. As the released terrorists attempt to erase the gesture, Israel remains steadfast in its commitment to remembering and confronting those who threaten its security.
