Israeli defense official visits Egypt

Amos Gilad arrives in Cairo for brief visit, slated to discuss Shalit deal, opening of Rafah border crossing

Roee Nahmias|Published: 06.01.11 , 23:03

Head of the Defense Ministry's political-security section Amos Gilad arrived in Cairo on Wednesday for a brief visit.

It is estimated that Gilad will discuss the release of Hamas prisoners in exchange for captive soldier Gilad Shalit during his stay. Security elements confirmed that Gilad is indeed in Cairo and is scheduled to meet with senior Egyptian officials.

According to Egyptian sources, the Israeli official is slated to discuss latest developments in the peace process as well as Israel-Egypt relations in the backdrop of the opening od the Rafah border crossing.

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"Anything relevant to Egypt will be discussed," an Israeli element said. It is estimated that Gilad will convey a message that goods cannot be allowed to pass through the Rafah crossing.

It has recently been reported that Israel hopes to see greater Egyptian involvement in the Shalit deal following political changes in Cairo and the Palestinian Authority. It is estimated that Egypt now has more influence in the matter following the reconciliation agreement between Fatah and Hamas.

This is not the first time Gilad has visited Egypt since the ouster of former President Hosni Mubarak. He maintains good relations with various Egyptian elements.

Hanan Greenberg contributed to this report