Netanyahu’s office accused Hamas of backtracking on parts of the agreement for leverage, a claim Hamas denied.

Netanyahu Announces Hostage Release Deal with Hamas

January 17, 2025 – The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that a “deal to release the hostages” has been reached. This significant development comes amidst heightened tensions and negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

Netanyahu has ordered the political-security cabinet to convene later in the day to discuss and approve the terms of the agreement. While specific details of the deal remain undisclosed, this breakthrough raises hopes for the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The announcement follows a series of accusations and counterclaims during negotiations. On Thursday, Netanyahu’s office accused Hamas of reneging on key parts of the agreement to extract last-minute concessions—a charge Hamas firmly denied.

This deal, if finalized, could mark a pivotal moment in ongoing efforts to de-escalate the conflict and bring relief to affected families. Further updates are expected following the cabinet meeting.

Netanyahu Informed of Agreement on Hostage Release Deal

In a statement released on Friday, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was informed by the negotiating team that agreements have been reached on a deal to release the hostages.”

This development follows extensive negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu has directed the political-security cabinet to convene later in the day to review and discuss the terms of the agreement.

While the specifics of the deal remain undisclosed, this announcement signifies a major step forward in resolving the crisis. Updates are anticipated following the cabinet’s deliberations.

Netanyahu’s Office Confirms Hostage Deal Progress

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Friday that a deal to release hostages held by Hamas has been reached.

On Thursday, Netanyahu’s office had accused Hamas of reneging on key parts of the agreement to demand last-minute concessions, an allegation Hamas denied.

In a statement, the office announced, “The Prime Minister ordered the political-security cabinet to convene tomorrow (Friday). The government will then convene to approve the deal.”

It further noted that the families of the hostages had been informed of the developments and that preparations were underway to receive the hostages upon their return. This agreement marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis.

Israel’s Cabinet to Decide on Hostage Exchange Deal

If approved by Israel’s cabinet, a truce agreement involving the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners is set to begin on Sunday. The arrangement, announced by mediators Qatar and the United States on Wednesday, is expected to pave the way for discussions on the terms of a permanent end to the conflict.

The agreement signifies a critical milestone in ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and secure the release of hostages. Further developments are anticipated as the Israeli cabinet convenes to finalize its decision.

Courtesy: LiveNOW from FOX

References

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