SelectPlusIsrael, Hezbollah Begin Prison SwapIsrael, Hezbollah Begin Prison SwapThe Associated PressFive Lebanese prisoners were taken from an Israeli prison Wednesday and driven towards a border crossing with Lebanon, where they are still awaiting release while the remains of two Israeli soldiers are being identified. (July 16)Two coffins for five prisoners.That was just part of a high-stakes swap Wednesday morning....In a deal worked out between Israel and Hezbollah -- and mediated by the United Nations.SOT: Red CrossInside the coffins? --- what are believed to be the remains of two former Israeli soldiers, snatched by Lebanese guerillas in July of 2006.A capture that triggered a deadly, month-long war between Israel and Lebanon.SOTIf D-N-A confirms the identities of the soldiers ---- Israel says these five Lebanese prisoners will be released And that they'd also hand over the bodies of nearly 200 Lebanese and Palestinian fighters killed in clashes over the years. SOTThe five prisoners were expected to receive a hero's welcome as they returned to Lebanon....Including this man --- Samir Kantar -- who was convicted almost 30 years ago in one of the most brutal attacks Israel has ever seen.SOT: VOX POP Lebanese woman holding portrait of Kantar in 70'sIsrael says they long suspected that the two kidnapped soldiers were dead --- but Hezbollah had never confirmed their conditions.Now that it's finally known --- family members and local residents say they're glad the ordeal was coming to an endSOT Shlomo Goldwasser, father of captive soldier: In a way I feel happiness that this is coming to an end.SOT: Local ResidentThis is not the first time Israel has been willing to work a controversial deal to return its troops. In 1985, they released 11 hundred and 50 Lebanese and Palestinian prisoners for the return of three captured soldiers. ___ ___, The Associated Press.
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