Netanyahu addressed his Facebook followers on Saturday, urging support for his plan to release Palestinians serving long prison terms gradually, including those sentenced for attacking and killing Israelis. “An open letter to the citizens of Israel” was also published on PM’s website.
“From time to time prime ministers are called on to make decisions that go against public opinion — when the matter is important for the country,” Netanyahu wrote, stressing that the decision he made “is painful for the bereaved families, it is painful for the entire nation, and it is also very painful for me.”
“This conclusion will be possible only on condition that the security of Israeli citizens and our vital national interests will be ensured,” Israeli PM promised.
No identities of Palestinian prisoners that might be included in the amnesty have been made public.