While it is not the first instance showcasing the humane treatment of Israeli prisoners by Palestinians, the moment when the captured Israeli soldier Omer Shem Tov was seen—through live broadcasts on Al Jazeera and other networks—kissing the heads of his captors from Al-Qassam Brigades in the Nuseirat area has sparked widespread reactions and discussions. His calm demeanor during the exchange procedures was particularly striking.
Many wonder why an Israeli soldier would kiss the head of his captors. The answer lies in a broader context that began on October 7th and continues to unfold. This moment represents a historical milestone that highlights the moral victory of the Palestinian people over a criminal adversary accused of committing genocide by international courts.
Some may interpret the image humorously, but its significance runs deeper. It is a powerful testament to a people under occupation overcoming their oppressor, not just militarily, but ethically. This image holds a special place in the history of Palestinian resistance and the broader struggle for liberation.
A Reflection of Ethical Superiority
The image of an Israeli soldier kissing the head of a Qassam fighter is not an anomaly. It is a profound representation of moral strength, intelligence, and values, signaling a crucial shift in a cause that concerns the entire world.
This moment further underscores how the Palestinian resistance continues to win hearts and minds through its ethical conduct. It is an outcome of Al-Qassam Brigades’ disciplined approach on the battlefield, and researchers analyzing recent developments have noted the growing international recognition of the Palestinian resistance’s conduct. The fact that an Israeli soldier voluntarily expressed gratitude towards his captors is a testament to this impact.
The Ethical Dimension and Its Benefits
Over 15 months of combat, the Palestinian resistance has consistently demonstrated high ethical standards in dealing with prisoners. This was evident from the very first announcement of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood by martyr Mohammed Deif, in which he stressed the avoidance of targeting civilians, particularly children and the elderly. This ethical approach has been reiterated throughout the conflict.
Even Israeli settlers have acknowledged this reality. One example is Rotem, an Israeli settler who confirmed that Qassam fighters reassured her that they do not harm women and children.
Such ethical behavior not only strengthens the resistance politically and militarily but also enhances its legitimacy and reputation locally, regionally, and internationally. Historically, philosophers and strategists, including Immanuel Kant, have emphasized that ethics in warfare are not merely moral imperatives but strategic necessities that contribute to victory.
By adhering to these values, Al-Qassam Brigades have reinforced the image of Palestinian society and its principles. This ethical conduct is likely to increase international support and break the isolation that the occupation seeks to impose through force and propaganda.
Countering Israeli DisinformationThe captured soldier Omer Shem Tov and other Israeli detainees openly thanked Al-Qassam Brigades for their humane treatment. These testimonials challenge the Israeli government’s longstanding attempts to vilify the resistance.
It remains unclear what fabricated footage Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presents to world leaders like Donald Trump and Joe Biden to shape their perceptions of Gaza and the prisoner situation. However, Israel has long engaged in deceptive propaganda, as seen in its distortion of the truth regarding the Bibas family, whom Israeli missiles killed in Gaza.
Recently, statements from global leaders, including Trump’s remarks about the Bibas family, suggest that Israel has deliberately misled the international community. Thus, videos released by Al-Qassam Brigades showing humane prisoner treatment play a crucial role in exposing Israeli deception.
Israeli officials, such as former ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan, have attempted to manipulate public opinion by equating Palestinians with Nazis. However, even within Israeli society, these baseless accusations are losing credibility. A recent Jerusalem Post poll found that 50% of Israeli respondents do not perceive Hamas as comparable to the Nazis, contradicting the occupation’s narrative.
Keeping the Prisoners’ Issue Alive
Netanyahu’s government has attempted to suppress the issue of Israeli prisoners, seeking to minimize political pressure from their families. However, Al-Qassam Brigades have continuously released footage of captives to keep this issue at the forefront, using it as a strategic leverage point in negotiations.
The persistence of Al-Qassam’s messaging has intensified domestic pressure on Netanyahu. Families of Israeli prisoners have escalated their rhetoric, expressing frustration that former U.S. President Trump appears more concerned about their relatives’ release than Netanyahu himself.
Israeli security agencies have also pressured the families to refrain from allowing images of their captured soldiers to be published in Israeli media. This effort is not about protecting the prisoners’ privacy but rather about shielding Netanyahu’s government from further scrutiny and preventing a surge of public outrage.
Tactical Intelligence and Creativity
Beyond the moral dimension, the resistance’s handling of the prisoner issue showcases strategic intelligence and adaptability. One striking example was the video showing two Israeli captives watching their comrades being released and subsequently pleading with their government to proceed with a prisoner exchange deal. This carefully curated moment served as both a psychological and strategic victory for the resistance.
The calculated approach taken by the resistance in handling Israeli prisoners has directly challenged the occupation’s security apparatus, exposing its vulnerabilities and forcing it into difficult choices. The video not only resonated deeply within Israeli society but also demonstrated the resistance’s ability to navigate the complexities of wartime diplomacy.
A Pivotal Moment in the Struggle
The imagery associated with the resistance—from the footage of Israeli soldiers being pulled from their tanks on October 7th to the orchestrated prisoner exchanges—carries profound symbolic weight. These moments are not fleeting; they are milestones in a transformative movement that will shape the dynamics of resistance, occupation, and international engagement for years to come.
Ultimately, the image of an Israeli soldier kissing the head of a Qassam fighter is not just about one man’s reaction—it is a reflection of a broader shift in power, perception, and historical momentum.
