Hamas marks Ramadan by releasing prisoners

Hamas is to release more than 150 prisoners after a decision made by Hamas president Ismail Haniyeh on the occasion of Ramadan.

Islam Shahwa, an official from the ministry of the interior of Hamas, made a speech to 159 prisoners at a “reform and rehabilitation center” in the west of Gaza, saying that their impending release was “thanks to the generosity of President Ismail Haniyeh on the occasion of Ramadan”

He explained that the inmates, all of whom have criminal court cases, “have participated in educational programs” at the center, citing Quran memorization, behavioral rehabilitation and an anti-unemployment program as signs they were ready to reenter society.

(AFP, Al-Akhbar)