Prague, 24 April 1997 (RFE/RL) -- Western press commentary devoted gallons of ink yesterday and today to the rescue by Peruvian troops of 72 high-ranking hostages held by terrorists in the Japanese Embassy in Lima. "The hostage rescue in Peru was a triumph," The Washington Post says bluntly, calling it an "Amazing Feat in Peru."
WASHINGTON POST: Peruvian president tactfully handles crisis
Today's editorial praises both the forbearance and the temerity of Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori. It says: "President Fujimori prepared two courses, negotiation and attack. He gave the first a reasonable chance, including an offer to the guerrillas of safe passage outside Peru. Having used the time to make meticulous preparations, he then moved to the second."