Bringing Home the Kids: A Special Mission for Israeli Soldiers
As Israel prepares for the potential release of 50 hostages, including 30 children, from Hamas, soldiers are getting ready with special instructions to ensure a smooth transition. According to Israeli media reports, the Haruv Institute, a Jerusalem-based organization dedicated to protecting children, helped draft these guidelines on behalf of the Israeli Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs.
Friday could see the release of 50 hostages, among them 30 children, in the first major hostage and prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel. The terrorist organization, responsible for the murder of around 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of around 240 hostages, is expected to release these prisoners in return for 150 Palestinian prisoners.
The Israeli military has specific instructions for dealing with these traumatized children. If possible, a soldier will be assigned as an escort to accompany each child on their journey back to Israel from the Gaza Strip. This soldier should greet the child, "Hi, I'm [Name] and I'm a soldier in the Israeli army. You are safe. I will take you home."
Soldiers are advised to inquire about the child's well-being, checking if they are cold, warm, or thirsty. If the child is struggling to walk, the soldier may offer to help, but only with explicit consent and without any inappropriate touch, the instructions clarify.
The soldiers are instructed to remain quiet as much as possible, telling the children that all questions will be answered once they reach Israel. Hospitals in Israel are prepared to receive the hostages in separate areas.
Dealing with the children's questions about their parents is a sensitive issue. If a child asks about their mom or dad, the soldiers are instructed not to disclose the information, even if it's known. Instead, the soldier should reply, "I don't know. I am only here to bring you safely back to Israel."
Soldiers are reminded to seek professional help before and after the release to process the traumatic experience. They must provide a safe haven for the children during this critical time.
Although the Haruv Institute is reportedly involved in developing these guidelines, search results indicate that it is not directly mentioned in the current sources. The Haruv Institute is focused on child welfare and protection, especially in conflict and terrorist situations. They might offer guidance in dealing with child-related issues, but this specific role is not confirmed in the search results.
As the Israeli military prepares for the potential release of hostage children, these sensitive handling guidelines echo the importance of ensuring their safe return while respecting their emotional well-being and privacy.
