Release of Palestinian detainees begins after prolonged "Israeli" delay

After a prolonged delay, the release of 620 Palestinian detainees from "Israeli" prisons has begun, following a deal brokered by mediators.

Hamas announced the agreement, which includes the release of an equal number of Palestinian women and children detained in Gaza since the aggression erupted.

Since the beginning of the ceasefire deal, around 1,135 Palestinian detainees have been freed from "Israeli" custody.

The ongoing exchange is expected to be the largest yet, with the release of approximately 602 detainees.

According to the Palestinian Prisoners’ Media Office, the latest release includes a diverse group: 50 individuals serving life sentences, 60 detainees with long sentences, 47 prisoners re-arrested after the 2011 Shalit deal, and 445 detainees from Gaza who were detained following the events of October 7.

This exchange follows the conclusion of the sixth round of prisoner releases on Feb. 16.