IDF chief calls latest return of terrorists’ remains a ‘mistake’

The IDF chief of staff on Wednesday tells cabinet ministers that it was a “mistake” to give the bodies of two Palestinian terrorists to their families for burial last Friday.

The comment comes in response to public criticism over the decision, officials say.

The remark does not seem to be directed toward the return of terrorists’ remains generally, but to the specific cases last Friday and the way in which they were handled.

IDF chief Lt. Gen. Gadi Eisenkot says the protocols for returning bodies had been changed following the criticism.

Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman’s office says the army chief “clarified things” during the security cabinet meeting and that “the minister accepted” Eisenkot’s remarks.

The decision to give back the bodies was approved by Liberman.

In recent years, Israel has returned the bodies of dozens of terrorists, but generally does so in ways designed to not arouse public notice, often late at night or on weekends and holidays. It is also generally contingent upon the terrorists’ families agreeing not to hold a public funeral, as Israel believes these events encourage additional terror attacks.

— Judah Ari Gross