Hamas releases four female Israeli soldiers held captive for more than 15 months. As part of the ceasefire deal, Israel is releasing some 200 Palestinians.

NPR's Scott Simons speaks to Maha Nassar, a professor at the University of Arizona, about how Palestinians will view the Israeli Prime Minister's visit to the White House next week.

President Joe Biden wraps up his term with a flurry of activity before Inauguration Day, and cold weather moves President-elect Donald Trump inside the Capitol for his oath of office and address.

NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Yossi Mekelberg of Chatham House's Middle East and North Africa Program, about the Israeli political response to a negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The Israeli government approved a ceasefire deal that could bring an end to the 15 months of war in Gaza. It's slated to go into effect Sunday morning.

NPR's Scott Simon speaks with Yossi Mekelberg of Chatham House's Middle East and North Africa Program, about the Israeli political response to a negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

SIMON: Greg, are the releases on both sides an indication that the ceasefire is holding - it's working? MYRE: Yes, Scott. It's absolutely a good sign that the ceasefire is now wrapping up its ...