Heroes’ welcome awaits Palestinians to be freed by Israel

NABLUS,

Widad al-Attaba, 78, has hardly slept since learning that her son jailed by Israel more than three decades ago has been listed among 199 Palestinian prisoners to be freed next week.

Relatives and friends are preparing to give Said al-Attaba, 56, a hero’s welcome when he finally returns to the family home in Nablus in the Israeli-occupied West Bank following Monday’s expected prisoner release.

Jailed since 1977 and sentenced to life for killing an Israeli woman, Attaba is the longest-serving Palestinian prisoner.

His early release along with that of Mohammed Ibrahim Abu Ali, imprisoned for killing an Israeli reservist, has triggered criticism as it marks a rare exception to Israel’s policy not to free those “with blood on their hands.” Israel has described the planned releases as a gesture of goodwill aimed at strengthening secular Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas and bolstering the slow-moving peace talks with the Palestinians.

Soon after the authorities on Monday announced the list of prisoners who would be freed, the Al-Attaba family began preparing the celebration for his release.

“I’ve been waiting for him to come home for 32 years,” Widad said.

The ailing mother has a special treat in mind for her son. “He likes stuffed vine leaves, and I will prepare some for Said on the day of his release,” she said, her voice shaking with emotion. Portraits of Attaba and framed letters sent from prison — including one addressed “to my courageous mother” — adorn the walls above the newly polished furniture and spotless floors. Relatives and friends have already brought sweets and fruit juice for the celebration. (AFP)