WSJ names estimated timeline for the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip
The release of hostages in the Gaza Strip under the agreement between Israel and the Palestinian movement Hamas will take place for at least several weeks. This was reported by The Wall Street Journal on January 15.
The publication emphasized that the list of Palestinian prisoners that Israel will release in exchange for its hostages in Gaza remains unconfirmed.
In addition, WSJ added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu managed to strengthen support for the agreement in the government, despite the discontent of extreme right-wing members.
The Gazaceasefire agreement between Palestinian Hamas and Israel became known on January 15. The first phase, which will last 42 days, will include the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al-Thani said that Qatar and Egypt mediated the deal.
On the same day, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) press office said that the Israeli army was preparing to receive the freed hostages. Israeli President Yitzhak Herzog, in turn, called the agreement "a correct and necessary step." According to him, the Israeli authorities will seek the return of all captives.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also supported the deal and expressed readiness to assist in its implementation. He also emphasized that the UN is "unwavering in its commitment" to peace and stability in the region, and will do everything to ensure that civilians are supported.
In addition, Trump linked the agreement reached to his election victory. The president-elect added that his national security team will continue to work with Israel and allies "to make sure that Gaza never again becomes a safe haven for terrorists."
The situation in the Middle East escalated on the morning of October 7, 2023, when the Palestinian radical movement Hamas launched a massive rocket attack from the Gaza Strip into Israel. On the same day, Israel began retaliatory strikes.
