Israel could free as many as 3,000 terrorists in Hostage Deal

Demonstrators protest against the Israeli government and for the release of Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Stripc outside Hakirya Base in Tel Aviv, January 11, 2025. (Photo by Itai Ron/Flash90)

A sweeping prisoner exchange deal taking shape could see Israel release more than 3,000 Palestinian security prisoners, including hundreds serving life sentences, in exchange for the remaining hostages held in Gaza since October 7, according to a senior Palestinian official.

Qadura Fares, who heads the Palestinian Prisoners Affairs Committee, revealed today (Sunday) that the first phase would involve freeing 25 Israeli hostages in return for approximately 1,250 Palestinian prisoners.

This initial group would include 200 prisoners serving life terms, 48 former Shalit deal prisoners who were re-arrested, and about 1,000 others - comprising women, minors and those with medical conditions. Most controversial among the terms is the planned release of prisoners serving life sentences, though these individuals would face deportation to Qatar, Turkey, or Egypt rather than returning home.

A senior political source confirmed to Israeli media that current discussions include both living captives and those believed to be deceased. "The negotiations are about everyone, the living and the dead," the source emphasized, noting that the deal structure includes provisions for transitioning to subsequent phases until all 98 remaining hostages are addressed.

The negotiations have taken on new urgency as President-elect Trump's team has reportedly pressed for a deal before his January 20 inauguration, prompting Prime Minister Netanyahu to dispatch a high-level delegation to Qatar led by Mossad chief David Barnea.

However, the proposed terms have already sparked fierce debate within Israel. National Missions Minister Orit Strook warned the deal would amount to "a clear victory and reward for terrorism," while Sharon Sharabi, whose brother Yossi was killed in captivity and whose other brother Eli remains hostage, called it "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to bring the captives home.

"If we wait a little longer, we will have no one to bring back," Sharabi told Ynet, reflecting the growing desperation of hostage families as the crisis enters its fifteenth month. "Both sides understood that a prolonged cease-fire is crucial, but this deal will also return the values of the State of Israel and the hostages home."

Arutz Sheva contributed to this article.