From the Liveblog of
Sunday, January 19, 2025
IDF preparing for release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners to West Bank
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleEmanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent
The IDF Central Command is preparing for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners to the West Bank as part of the hostage deal and ceasefire with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
The military says it has implemented lessons learned from previous releases of Palestinian prisoners.
The IDF says it will work to prevent celebrations and parades when the prisoners are freed. Shin Bet agents have made warning calls to the families of those who are expected to be freed.
In addition, the IDF says it is bolstering troops and ramping up defensive efforts in the West Bank to prevent potential attacks.
The Central Command is also readying to carry out offensive actions in the West Bank, to prevent Hamas from establishing a foothold in the West Bank in light of the release of members of the terror group.
The offensive plans are being coordinated with the Palestinian Authority, who also fear Hamas gaining power in the West Bank, military sources say.
According to the IDF, of the 150 Palestinians released in the November 2023 deal with Hamas, three were killed in airstrikes and clashes, and around 30 were rearrested after resuming terror activity.
The Central Command intends to monitor the prisoners being released in this agreement and rearrest them if needed.
The Times of Israel Community.