The possible agreement between Israel and Hamas for the release of IDF soldier Gilad Shalit may have derailed negotiations. Hamas may toughen its stance due to confirmation of the immense domestic pressure in Israel to ensure Shalit’s return, thereby weakening the government’s hand. Moreover, with PM Ehud Olmert nearing the culmination of his term, many Israelis contend that his removal from office without ensuring Shalit’s release would mark Olmert as a complete failure, a legacy he is unwilling to leave behind.
Al-Qaeda reportedly claimed responsibility for the terror attack in the territories that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli policemen. The terror group announced the declaration in leaflets distributed in Jordan and the West Bank.
Sixteen of the world’s most prominent judges sent a letter to the United Nations requesting a probe into Operation Cast Lead that left Gaza in ruins in response to rocket fire in southern Israel. The group expressed shock at the offensive, declaring that an inquiry would help move the region forward.
