Israel deported Palestinian prisoners to Egypt. Some Israelis question the practice

Prof. Kobi Michael: I think that for these people to live in Doha or in Istanbul under the hospitality of the [Qataris] and the Turks, is not a punishment.

The impact of Israel’s recent strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar If released prisoners end up in cities like Qatar’s capital of Doha, or Istanbul and Ankara in Turkey, they could be in “safe zones” enabling released prisoners to operate more freely and play a future role in groups like Hamas. They have a sort of immunity, because Israel will not target them, at least not under the current circumstances.

Published in NPR, November 13, 2025.