Fox News says Netanyahu delaying Shalit deal
American network reports talks aimed at securing kidnapped soldier's release awaiting formal Israeli response for three weeks now. Israeli source quoted as saying, 'We are being played by the German mediator, who seems to be more favorable to Hamas, possibly because of Germany's economic ties with Iran'
An Israeli source familiar with the negotiations is quoted as suggesting that "Israel is being played by the German mediator and he seems to be more favorable to Hamas possibly because of the German government's economic ties with Iran, known to be Hamas' financial and ideological backer."
Among the reservations that were raised, according to Fox News: What would an agreement like this mean for Israel, a country constantly in a state war? By releasing a thousand prisoners for one soldier, it's uncertain what the future consequences might be if Israel finds itself in a similar situation.
An Egyptian source confirmed to Fox News that talks have been stalled and are awaiting a formal Israeli response for three weeks now.
The Israeli source, who fears the opportunity for Shalit's release is narrowing, was quoted as saying that "time kills all deals."
London-based Arabic-language al-Quds al-Arabi newspaper reported earlier that by Sunday Israel would notify Egypt of its decision regarding the release of 50 "heavy" prisoners that Hamas is unwilling to forego in exchange for Shalit, according to sources close to the prisoner swap negotiations.
The report stated that Israel has opposed the release of these prisoners thus far. The sources said that Israel's decision would determine whether the swap deal would succeed or fail.
