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Israel Mulls Prisoner Release Deal Without Shalit

Israel is considering releasing dozens of Palestinian prisoners as a goodwill gesture, without conditioning this on the release of captive Israeli soldier, Cpl. Gilad Shalit.
 
Israeli officials are thinking of releasing the prisoners ahead of the Muslim festival ‘Id Al-A’dha which begins this weekend, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert implied, following a meeting with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud ‘Abbas on Saturday.
 
Several cabinet ministers agreed such a gesture would be desirable and would serve Israel’s interests, according to media reports.
 
Such a measure would improve ‘Abbas’ standing and embolden moderate elements in the P.A., supporters of the idea believe, even if freeing Shalit would not be a condition for the release.
 
Three armed Palestinian groups have taken credit for capturing Shalit on the Gaza border exactly six months ago. Shalit is being held in captivity, presumably in Gaza.
 
Meanwhile, commander of the Israeli Army’s Central Command Maj.-Gen. Yair Naveh expressed concern about Olmert’s assurance to ‘Abbas to cut back roadblocks in the West Bank.
 
Such a measure would make it easier for terrorist organizations to carry out terror attacks, Naveh said, according to Israel’s Army Radio.