Israel is set to release more than 1,890 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 33 Israeli hostages during the first phase of a ceasefire in Gaza, according to an AFP report, citing an announcement by Egypt on Saturday. The truce is scheduled to begin at 6:30 AM GMT on Sunday and marks only the second ceasefire in the 15-month conflict that has claimed over 50,000 lives.
The deal, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, includes the release of hostages held in Gaza since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. Of the initial 251 hostages taken, 94 remain in Gaza, with 34 reported deceased, according to the Israeli military.
During this initial 42-day phase of the truce, Israel’s justice ministry confirmed that 737 Palestinian prisoners would be freed starting Sunday afternoon, following a timeline coordinated with mediators. Egypt credited Qatar and the new US administration under President Donald Trump for their roles in negotiating the agreement.
