The Government approved the release of 250 Palestinian terrorists Sunday afternoon.  The prisoners will be released as a gesture to PA President Abu Mazen.  They are also being released in honor of the Muslim Holiday of Sacrifice on December 8th.

The decision passed in the Cabinet despite the opposition of several ministers.  Minister Eli Yishai (Shas), Shaul Mofaz (Kadima), and Yaakov Edri (Likud) opposed the release.

Commenting on the terrorist release, blogger Michael Freund wrote: "Israel's government this morning essentially ignored the ongoing plight of kidnapped Israeli serviceman Gilad Shalit and voted in favor of releasing an additional 250 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for..... nothing."