Israel's Channel 2 news and Reuters report that an agreement has been reached to liberate kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit, who has been in the custody of Hamas for 1,934 days - over 5 years.
Video still from Hamas video released in 09


The Prime Minister's office reportedly announced that an agreement has been reached to ensure the freedom of Gilad Shalit. The agreement is "in place" and is waiting to be voted upon by the Knesset. The vote may take place as early as tonight.

Hamas TV and Al Arabiyah is reporting that Israel agreed to trade 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in return for Gilad Shalit and the trade may take place as early as next month.

One expert pointed out that the prisoners are in fact considered to be "heavy prisoners," an Israeli term referring to terrorists with "blood on their hands."

The Prime Minister's office has not confirmed this number or further details at this time, merely saying that an agreement has been reached and more information will be revealed shortly.

Shalit's father, Noam Shalit has stated that the family is "waiting to be updated."