From the Liveblog of
Saturday, February 8, 2025
IDF operating in West Bank to prevent celebrations for Palestinian prisoners being released today
Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
The IDF says troops are operating in the West Bank to prevent parades and celebrations for the Palestinian prisoners being released today in the hostage deal with Hamas.
In recent days, the IDF and Shin Bet made calls to the families of the prisoners being released, warning them against celebrations. The Civil Administration also delivered messages to the Palestinian Authority, the military says.
Soldiers also seized Hamas flags and other objects that would have been used in parades, the IDF adds.
In exchange for the three Israeli hostages released earlier today, Israel is freeing 183 Palestinian security prisoners, including 18 serving life sentences. Many of the prisoners are being released to the West Bank.
