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Israel to release about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in first phase of deal with Hamas

17 January 2025 09:59 (UTC +04:00)

In an unprecedented diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Hamas have agreed to implement the ceasefire agreement, eight months after it was drafted and approved by the UN Security Council, APA reports citing The Jerusalem Post.

This move marks a potential turning point in one of West Asia’s bloodiest conflicts in Gaza.

At the heart of the ceasefire deal is the exchange of prisoners. Hamas has agreed to release 33 Israeli prisoners during the first phase, prioritising women, children, and men over 50. These include soldiers, civilians, and dual nationals held prisoners since the October 7 attack.

In return, Israel will release about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 who are serving life sentences. According to Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim, “This agreement reflects our commitment to alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people and our steadfast pursuit of justice for those unlawfully imprisoned.”

The release process will unfold over six weeks, with three hostages being freed weekly. For each prisoner released, Israel will free dozens of Palestinian prisoners, ensuring a phased and balanced exchange.

The agreement includes a 42-day truce, during which Israel will initiate a phased military withdrawal from key positions in Gaza, including the Netzarim Corridor. Hamas has requested that Israeli forces retreat at least 700 meters from the Gaza border as a confidence-building measure.

Egypt and Qatar will oversee the withdrawal process to ensure compliance. Speaking to Al Jazeera, a Qatari official stated, “This is a fragile but vital step forward. We will ensure that both parties adhere to the terms and that displaced residents can return safely to their homes.”