Jerusalem
Israel’s Cabinet voted this week to release at least 300 Palestinian prisoners in the next two weeks, if terrorist groups live up to their promise of a cease-fire. Prisoners younger than 18, older than 60, and women would be released first. Two weeks ago, the militant groups agreed to halt suicide bombings and other terrorist killings in return for prisoner releases and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. But Palestinians say the fragile truce will be shattered if Israel fails to release all 5,500 prisoners seized since the current uprising began in September 2000. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon assured his Cabinet that members of Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and other militant groups would not be freed. “There is no way prisoners with blood on their hands will be released,” he said.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The Pentagon faces an uncertain future with TrumpTalking Point The president-elect has nominated conservative commentator Pete Hegseth to lead the Defense Department
-
This is what you should know about State Department travel advisories and warningsIn Depth Stay safe on your international adventures
-
'All Tyson-Paul promised was spectacle and, in the end, that's all we got'Instant Opinion Opinion, comment and editorials of the day
