Caroline Glick writes how the USA could have pushed mediating countries for a deal with no terrorists released, but did not.

<p>In accordance with the situational assessment and as part of the IDF's preparations to implement the stages of the ceasefire agreement, the area of the Nitzana Border Crossing will be declared a closed military zone as of Sunday at 12:01 a.m.</p><p>Additionally, the areas of Yad Mordechai and Kerem Shalom have been declared as closed military zones until January 24th, 2025.</p><p>The IDF emphasizes that entry to these areas is prohibited.</p>

<p>The IDF is strongly prepared in defense and offense in advance of the beginning of the ceasefire tomorrow (Sunday).</p><p>Following the request of the heads of the local authorities and with the approval of the Minister of Defense and the Chief of the General Staff, schools in communities near the Gaza Strip will begin tomorrow morning (Sunday) at 10:00 to strengthen the sense of security amongst the residents.</p><p>In the rest of the country, schools will continue as usual in accordance with the Home Front Command's guidelines.</p>

Arab reports: IDF striking in northern Gaza

IDF Chief of Staff visits Gaza border, speaks about war against Hamas: 'The work doesn’t end here, we still have a lot more to do. We will do this with great strength and determination.'

The government approved a deal to release 735 prisoners, exchanging them for 33 hostages held by Hamas. The list includes senior terrorists responsible for some of the deadliest attacks in Israel's history.

Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar says at Cabinet meeting that the hostage release deal is difficult and that he himself arrested some of the terrorists who will be released, but justifies implementation of the deal by the momentum created.

<p><i>Al Arabiya</i> reports that Hamas will submit at dawn the list of Israeli hostages to be freed on Sunday.</p>