Grapel denies Mossad ties

Egyptian press reported Wednesday that Ilan Grapel, the Israeli detained on espionage charges in Egypt, confirmed he had served in the Israel Defense Forces during his interrogation but strongly denied ever working for the Mossad.

On Tuesday, Grapel met with Israeli representatives in Cairo who said he was doing well.

Egyptian paper Al Masry Al Youm reported that Grapel had denied all the allegations suggesting he sent confidential information about Egypt via email. He said that he sent information to calm his family and friends in the wake of the political upheaval. Grapel claimed the information was not confidential and could be found online and was also broadcast in Arab stations.

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The Al Ahram daily maintained its hard line reporting. "The interrogation reveals Grapel is in important element within the Mossad," the newspaper said. "He underwent advanced training at the Mossad including for cases of arrest and was told to deny all allegations." It was further reported that the investigators have proof Grapel has Mossad ties.

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman addressed the affair during a press conference with his German counterpart on Tuesday.

"We hope Grapel will be released soon, there is no reason for him to stay there…he may be a young man who's not responsible enough but he has no links to intelligence services. He's a naïve guy who should not be in custody."

Israeli Embassy personnel discussed Grapel's case with Egyptian prosecution representatives and said they will continue to work for his release.

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