When Justice Bleeds: A son screams as his mother's killers go free

On August 19th, 2003, a suicide bombing on Line 2 resulted in 23 deaths, including 7 children, and over 130 injuries. Hamas claimed responsibility for the attack, which occurred in the Shmuel HaNavi neighborhood. The bomber was disguised as a Haredi Jew, and the attack was particularly devastating due to the high number of children on the bus, many returning from a visit to the Kotel (Western Wall).

The son of a woman murdered in this bombing has spoken out against the planned release of his mother's killers as part of the hostage deal with Hamas.

Joel Schwartz, whose mother Ahuva Liba Schwartz was killed in the bus attack, expressed deep concern over the impending release of the attack's planners.

"Twenty years have passed since my mother was murdered in that cruel attack," Schwartz said. "The pain and loss are with me every day. Now I face a new pain: learning that my mother's killers are about to be released as part of the hostages deal."

While acknowledging the desperate situation of current hostage families, Schwartz warned of the dangers posed by releasing convicted terrorists. "I fully understand the longing of the hostages' families to see their loved ones return home safely. It's a basic human feeling that deeply moves me," he said.

However, he emphasized the risks involved: "Releasing these terrorists, with blood on their hands, isn't just a betrayal of their victims' memory - it poses a real and tangible threat."

Drawing on historical precedent, Schwartz referenced previous prisoner exchanges: "Past experience with deals like the Shalit exchange shows these terrorists haven't abandoned terrorism. Many returned to carrying out attacks and killing innocent people. They're not just released prisoners - they're active terrorists."

Schwartz concluded with a somber warning: "While I pray for the hostages' safe return, I must remind everyone of the heavy price our society may pay in the future for releasing such terrorists."

The statement comes as Israel prepares to release up to 2000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, including some convicted of involvement in deadly terror attacks.

Kikar HaShabbat contributed to this article.