[gracex7]

...but whats the point of these terrorists to take hostages only to release them a few days later?

I think they're playing a game with public opinion in the US, Japan, etc. The peaceniks will use these releases to fuel their fires and the press will play right along with their charade.

I do hope and pray that all of the hostages are released in good condition and that the public will be a little more savvy than I believe they are.

[Atlantic Friend]

Maybe they traded them for some diplomatic advantage, like the promise not to arrest or kill Sadr, or something of a more solid nature ? Who are these groups negotiating with, anyway ?