Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for the release of kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit have been postponed until after general elections, a source close to Hamas told London-based Al-Quds Al-Arabi newspaper.
The source said Egypt decided to put the talks on hold due to "Israel's internal situation".
| Criticism |
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| Barak: Transit government should work on releasing Shalit / Attila Somfalvi |
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Defense minister says leaders will soon be faced with difficult decisions in case of kidnapped soldier; adds he would have succeeded in coalition talks where Kadima chairwoman failed |
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The source estimated that there would be no breakthrough in the Shalit matter until after Israel forms its new government, and said Hamas has decided to reconsider the truce agreement.
"The Hamas leadership in the territories and abroad is holding talks to decide on the matter and has even opened talks with the rest of the Palestinian parties in order to reach an agreement regarding the ceasefire," the source said.
Hamas is also interested in delaying talks with Cairo until the end of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' official term on January 9.
According to the source, Hamas and other Palestinian parties oppose Egypt's desire to keep Abbas in office for an unlimited amount of time, as well as Egypt's giving Abbas a green light to continue talks with Israel.
Regarding this week's clashes with Israel, the source said Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak was looking to gain popularity ahead of elections and was trying to market himself as 'Mr. Defense' and win over more votes.
Kadima Chairwoman Tzipi Livni was also trying to use the military operations to better her reputation, the source claimed.
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