Hamas politburo leader Khaled Meshal, who is based in Damascus, on Saturday pointed the finger of blame at Israel for the delay in the release of IDF soldier Gilad Shalit.

The master terrorist stated that Israel’s refusal to cooperate in talks results in the deadlock in negotiations. He told the Arab media that Israel to date has rejected lists submitted in a proposed prisoner release, resulting in Shalit’s prolonged incarceration.

Making reference to the ongoing fighting in Gaza, he stated a ceasefire would only follow Israel’s total cessation of military activities in Yehuda, Shomron and Gaza.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)