Netanyahu says deal to launch Hamas-held hostages has been reached

Supporters and members of the family of hostages kidnapped throughout the lethal October 7, 2023, assault on Israel by Hamas, collect subsequent to a slogan fashioned of candles on a street throughout a protest forward of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, on January 16, 2025
| Picture Credit score: Reuters

The workplace of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Friday (January 17, 2025) {that a} “deal to launch the hostages” had been reached and that he had ordered the political-security cupboard to convene later within the day.

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was knowledgeable by the negotiating crew that agreements have been reached on a deal to launch the hostages,” his workplace stated in an announcement.

Additionally learn | Israel-Hamas battle: Key factors of ceasefire settlement

His workplace had accused Hamas on Thursday of reneging on key components of the settlement to extort last-minute concessions — an allegation Hamas denied.

“The Prime Minister ordered the political-security cupboard to convene tomorrow (Friday). The federal government will then convene to approve the deal,” Mr. Netanyahu’s workplace stated.

It added that the households of the hostages had been knowledgeable and that preparations have been being made to obtain them upon their return.

If authorised by Israel’s cupboard, the truce settlement would start on Sunday and contain the trade of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, after which the phrases of a everlasting finish to the battle could be finalised.

It was introduced by mediators Qatar and the USA on Wednesday.