It looked like PM Olmet was taking a gamble, a big gamble. As the Palestinain flag flew along side the Israeli flag out side the Prime Minister's residence for the first time, Olmet was set to release Palestinians from Israeli jails as a good will indication. Mean time thousands of Jews around the world had just finished lighting chanukah candles with the fate of Israel's captured soldiers in their minds and hearts.

Following pressure from the Cabinate and Shalit's parents, Olmet backed down. Now he agreed was not the time. When Israel's kidnapped soldiers are returned, then some good will might be in order.

The response from Palestinians who have grown to expect this annual "good will guesture" where politicans of all stripes over turn the judgements of the judicial system and free those locked up for terrorism is still to be seen.