What are Israelis thinking trading hostages for terrorists? I consider it a mistake. But nevertheless, and partly in consequence, I want to focus on one excellent reason for it. It’s something hidden in plain sight, something we all understand so instinctively we can easily forget it, and with it what the conflict is all about.

First, channelling my inner Richard Nixon, once you have paid the Danegeld you will never be rid of the Dane. And if you’re going anywhere near geopolitics, you want to have such an inner voice and listen to it. I still say this deal was an error, and will cost them.