The Egyptians will play a role in the actual physical exchange of the prisoners as well . Gilad Shalit , the Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas since 2006 , is being released . The prisoner release is a sign of hope , says Ronald W. Zweig . The Palestinians have played a major role as intermediaries , he says . Israel 's release of 1,000 Palestinian prisoners may help lead to peace , he says .
Gilad Shalit , the Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas since 2006 , is being released . The prisoner release is a sign of hope , says Ronald W. Zweig . The Palestinians have played a major role as intermediaries , he says . Israel 's release of 1,000 Palestinian prisoners may help lead to peace , he says .