Hamas officially releases captured Israeli soldier

Hamas' leader in the Gaza Strip says the militant group has officially turned over a captive Israeli soldier to Egypt as part of a prisoner swap with Israel. In a text message, Mahmoud Zahar said Tuesday that his group is no longer holding Sgt. Gilad Shalit. 

Hamas prime minister in the Gaza Strip Ismail Haniyeh confirmed that Gilad Shalit has been transferred to Egypt. According to Palestinian reports Haniyeh is celebrating the Palestinian prisoners' release at the Rafah crossing. (Ynet)