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.
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