The Israeli justice ministry has announced the release of 737 prisoners and detainees as part of the initial phase of a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas. The decision, confirmed on Saturday, aims to support efforts to end the 15-month conflict in the Gaza Strip.
According to an AFP report, citing an official statement, the government approved the release of individuals currently held by the prison service. The agreement follows a six-hour deliberation by Israeli officials.
The ceasefire agreement, implemented in three stages, begins with a six-week period during which hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for Israeli-held prisoners. The first phase will see 33 hostages, including women, children, and older men, released by Hamas.
