Shalit Turns 22: Signs of Concessions to Bring Him Home

The Israeli government is apparently ready to make new concessions that it hopes will lead to the return of captured soldier Gilad Shalit. The prime minister, defense minister and foreign minister have reportedly decided to greenlight the easing of conditions for the release of Palestinian prisoners. Specifically, many with "blood on their hands" – the Israeli code for those who have been involved in the killing of Israelis and therefore not eligible for a prisoner swap or goodwill release – will be added to the list of those Israel is willing to set free in return for Shalit. Although the security echelon opposes the move, it is believed that a ministerial committee will formally make the change on Sunday, paving the way for a resumption of the stalemated negotiations. Talks regarding the Shalit situation are being brokered by Egypt. Shalit turns 22 on Thursday, his third birthday in captivity. He was snatched in a cross-border raid by Palestinian factions in June 2006.