Al-Zahar
Photo: AP
Hamas says 120 rounds of talks dedicated to Shalit
Mahmoud al-Zahar says Hamas to hold Shalit until Israel complies with its demands
Hamas members have taken part in no less than 120 rounds of talks with Egypt and German mediation in an effort to secure the Gilad Shalit swap, senior group figure Mahmoud al-Zahar said Wednesday.
The talks did not bear and fruit because Israel is unwilling to pay the price demanded by Hamas for the captive soldier, al-Zahar said.
"We will continue to hold the soldier until they comply with our demands," he said during a speech in a Gaza Strip refugee camp, adding that the Israeli side had rejected previous agreements between the sides.
Al-Zahar also reiterated that Hamas will ensure Shalit's wellbeing in captivity.
Meanwhile, Hamas's Politburo Chief Khaled Mashaal warned Wednesday that Shalit will not be the last Israeli soldier to be held by Hamas. Mashaal also blamed Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu for thwarting a deal for Shalit.
On Tuesday, numerous Israelis across the nation wore white shirts as part of a day of solidarity with the captive soldier.
Gilad Shalit was abducted to the Gaza Strip 1,403 days ago
