Official statements from the Israeli government or credible news reports

Netanyahu: Gaza Ceasefire Temporary, Israel to Free 33 Hostages for 737 Prisoners

Jan 18, 2025, 06:36 PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the ceasefire in Gaza, set to begin on Sunday, is temporary and that Israel retains the right to resume hostilities with U.S. support if necessary. Netanyahu emphasized that both President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump have given Israel full backing to return to fighting if negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire prove futile. He promised to meet all war goals, including the return of all hostages held in Gaza. The first phase of the ceasefire, lasting six weeks, will see the release of 33 hostages in exchange for 737 Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu also mentioned that Trump has committed to lifting all remaining restrictions on U.S. munitions, enabling Israel to resume the war with significant force if needed.