As Shabbat begins, Hamas is expected to release 13 hostages. Israel will release 39 security prisoners two hours afterwards.

<p>Netanyahu and FM Cohen criticize Belgian and Spanish Prime Ministers who levelled accusations at Israel hours before hostage release.</p><p><em><span>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</span></em></p>

Oriyah had to cancel her Bat Mitzvah celebration when her family needed to leave their home - until now.

As Shabbat begins, Hamas is expected to release 13 hostages. Israel will release 39 security prisoners two hours afterwards.

During the operation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will be at the IDF Operations Branch control center at the Kirya in Tel Aviv.The Prime Minister and the Defense Minister will closely monitor the management of the operation to bring the Israelis who have been released from Hamas captivity back to the country.Prime Minister Netanyahu will be accompanied by National Security Council Director Tzachi Hanegbi and his Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Avi Gil. Defense Minister Gallant will be accompanied by his Military Secretary, Brig.-Gen. Guy Markizano and

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<p>Israeli officials confirmed that the 13 hostages are in Egypt and will be making their way to Israel soon.</p><p><em>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</em></p>

<p>[twittervideo:2134419]</p><p><em>(Israel National News' North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Israel National News articles, however, is Israeli time.)</em></p>