Phase one of hostage swap: 33 Israeli captives for 2,000 Palestinian prisoners

The first phase of a significant agreement between Israel and Hamas, brokered in Doha on January 16, sets the stage for a ceasefire in Gaza and a major prisoner exchange.

As part of the deal, Israel will release 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 33 Israeli hostages, Caliber.Az reports referring to Israeli media.

The phased implementation of the agreement is set to begin 2-3 days after signing and will last 42 days. The first group of hostages to be released includes women and children, followed by female soldiers, men over 50, and young men classified as "humanitarian cases."

In return, Israel will release 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 1,000 detained since October 7, 2023, and 250 serving life sentences. However, individuals directly involved in the October 7 attacks on Israel are excluded from the deal. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the deal, involving mediation by the United States and Qatar. Netanyahu emphasized the dual goals of safeguarding national security and addressing the humanitarian crisis.

A security cabinet meeting on January 18, followed by a full cabinet session, will finalize Israel's approval of the agreement.

Despite the breakthrough, delays have emerged. The first group of hostages, initially scheduled for release earlier, will now be freed on January 20 due to disagreements over the prisoner list. Hamas's demand to include its military leaders serving life sentences has been a sticking point.

The agreement includes a temporary ceasefire in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip. This development marks a critical moment in the ongoing negotiations to address the humanitarian and security crises resulting from the prolonged hostilities.

By Tamilla Hasanova