On Friday, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office released a statement indicating that after a thorough evaluation of the various political, security, and humanitarian dimensions involved,
and recognizing that the proposed deal aligns with the strategic objectives of the ongoing war, the Ministerial Committee for National Security Affairs—also known as the Political-Security Cabinet—has recommended that the government endorse the suggested framework.
The statement further mentioned that a government meeting would be convened later that same day to discuss the matter.
This agreement, which was initially unveiled earlier in the week, stipulates that Hamas will release 33 hostages over the course of six weeks.
In exchange, Israel is expected to release hundreds of Palestinians who are currently imprisoned, a significant number of whom are incarcerated for terrorist offenses and related crimes.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed his expectation that this deal will come into effect on Sunday, highlighting the importance of this development in the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed a special task force to prepare for the reception of hostages returning from Gaza, indicating that their families have been informed of a deal that is anticipated to be finalized.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, should the agreement be ratified, a ceasefire could commence on Sunday, coinciding with the potential release of the first hostages.
Under the proposed accord, 33 out of approximately 100 hostages currently held in Gaza are scheduled for release over a period of six weeks in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
In conjunction with these developments, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from various areas, facilitating the return of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to their homes, as well as an increase in humanitarian assistance.
The remaining hostages, which include male soldiers, are to be released during a subsequent phase that will be negotiated concurrently with the ongoing negotiations of the first phase.
Hamas has asserted that it will not free the remaining captives without a sustainable ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal, while Israel has maintained its commitment to continue military operations until it has dismantled Hamas and has established enduring security control over the region.
Jaher Jabareen, head of the Hamas office responsible for prisoner affairs, stated on Friday that the names of individuals likely to be released from Israeli custody will be disclosed, although he did not specify a timeline for this announcement.
Long-term considerations regarding the governance of post-war Gaza remain unresolved, particularly regarding the management of reconstruction efforts.
An official from Egypt and a representative from Hamas confirmed that last-minute disputes had arisen concerning the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released during the initial phase of the agreement; however, these issues have since been addressed.
Both officials requested anonymity in order to discuss the confidential negotiations. The Hamas representative indicated that mediators have communicated Israel’s approval of the arrangement.
