Israel has started releasing Palestinian prisoners as part of a new peace agreement. The process began on Thursday following weeks of negotiations. This prisoner exchange represents a key confidence-building measure between the parties.
International mediators have been pushing for such goodwill gestures to revive stalled peace talks. The release involves non-violent offenders detained for minor charges.
Why does this matter now? Both sides face domestic pressure to show progress after months of escalating tensions. Prisoner releases often serve as visible indicators of diplomatic breakthroughs, though lasting peace requires more substantial compromises on core issues.