The debate over hostage release agreements in Israel is being heavily influenced by the media and is putting pressure on the government to make a deal. Some family members of hostages have different opinions on the matter but have not been given equal air-time to express their views. The media is dominated by those who want to alter the Zionist ethos and push for a hostage deal at any cost. There has been little discussion on the security implications of releasing Hamas terrorists or the value of the lives of potential victims. The public is being denied an open and fact-based debate on this critical issue.