If memory serves, Carter was also an observer who helped to ensure that the last elections in the Palestinian territories was “free and fair”.

The message was clearly dictated. Which is to say that it really isn’t clear whether it was in fact recorded almost a year after his abduction (as he recites) or a day after his abduction (for release later). The fact is that Hamas has never offered conclusive proof that Gilad is alive, which they easily could (a photo with a current newspaper, for example). So until they do, it’s prudent to assume the worst while praying that we’re wrong.

His voice sounded surprisingly stable and strong, although you could hear from the way he put his words that he had to read a text written by his captors.

This poor boy, his poor parents.