The videotape deal between Israel and Hamas is already underway, with the first Palestinian prisoner, 15-year-old Bara'ah Malki, released from prison Wednesday night.
Malki was convicted of attempted murder and carrying a knife with intent to harm, and was slated to be released in November 2009.
According to the deal, announced by the Prime Minister's Office on Wednesday, 20 female Palestinian prisoners are slated to be released in exchange for a recent video of captive Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit .
Malki returned to her family's home in the Jalazone refugee camp near Ramallah, and was greeted with hugs and kisses by her parents.
Malki greeted by her father (Photo: AP)
"The judge gave the decision to release me. My name was part of the deal. They have decided to release women," she said.
On Wednesday, Nablus resident Hanaa Qaisi, whose daughter Ayat is slated to be released as part of the deal in the near future, told Ynet, "This is a day of great joy."
Qaisi was arrested in November 2007, under suspicion of planning to help a terrorist infiltrate Israel, as revenge for the IDF's killing of her fiancé.
Qaisi was operating on behalf of Fatah's military wing al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades, and was slated to be released in a month-and-a-half, regardless of the exchange deal.
"I thank you for this incredible news. I would rather me and all my children be put in prison than have Ayat, my only daughter taken away from me," the mother said.