Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said on Friday it was in an advanced stage of negotiations over the release of a British reporter abducted in Gaza almost three months ago.
A statement by Hamas’ armed wing, the Izz el-Din al-Qassam Brigades, said it was talking to the captors of the BBC’s Alan Johnston andhad “begun practical steps to secure his release”. Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip over the past two days.
It is estimated that if Johnston is not released soon Hamas gunmen will storm the compound he is being held captive in. Sources in Gaza said the BBC reporter may be released as early as Saturday.
Former Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh told French magazine Le Figaro that Hamas’ victory in the Strip may expedite Johnston’s release.
“We will maintain law and order in Gaza, and therefore it will be easier to secure Johnston’s release,” Haniyeh said. “The kidnappers will listen to us.”
Little-known group
In Damascus, Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal said he was in contact with Hamas operatives in Gaza to secure the release of Johnston.
“I have urged our brothers in Gaza to double their efforts. I am confident that those holding Alan Johnston will realize that keeping him captive doesn’t serve the national interest,” Mashaal said.
“I hope, but I don’t promise, that his release is near,” Mashaal said.
Johnston, the only Western correspondent based full-time in Gaza, was seized on March 12.
His abductors—a little-known group called the Army of Islam—issued a video of him on June 1 in which he said he was in good health and being treated well, although it was not known when the tape was made.
Johnston, from Scotland, turned 45 in captivity last month.