January 17, 2025, 6:17 am Mountain
The office of Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released the following statement:
“Following an evaluation of all diplomatic, security and humanitarian aspects, and while understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework.”
Following the announcement, Israel President Isaac Herzog made the following statement:
“I welcome the Israeli Security Cabinet’s decision to approve the hostage deal which will bring our hostages home, as presented by the Prime Minister and the negotiating team. I expect the government to follow suit in swiftly affirming this decision. This is a vital step toward fulfilling the highest covenant between the state and its citizens. There is no greater moral, human, Jewish, and Israeli duty. We must bring all of our hostages back home.
“I harbor no illusions — the deal will bring with it great challenges and painful, agonizing moments that we will need to overcome and face together. With all my heart, I embrace the families of the hostages, especially those who know that their loved ones will not return in the first stage. We must bring everyone back. Everyone! We will not rest or relent until this happens.
“Now, on the eve of Shabbat, I pray and hope that this moment will become a national hour of goodwill, enabling us to heal, rebuild, and shape our shared future as one people.
“Shabbat Shalom.”
