From the Liveblog of
Saturday, February 22, 2025
Release of 602 Palestinian prisoners delayed as Israel indicates it is weighing next steps
Multiple reports indicate the planned release of 602 Palestinian prisoners after today’s hostage return is being delayed.
Israel informed Palestinian officials in the West Bank that the release will be pushed back to 8 p.m. this evening, according to Arab outlets.
An unnamed Israeli source quoted by several Hebrew media outlets says: “Regarding the delay in the release of the terrorists — following the conclusion of [the prime minister’s] security consultation [tonight], a decision will be made regarding the next steps, and the completion of the return of hostages’ remains at this stage.”
Analysts speculate that the delay is tied to the brutal murders of Shiri, Ariel and Kfir Bibas by their terrorist captors, but there is no official word on this.
The Times of Israel Community.