During his state visit to Russia, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to pass a message to Hamas that Israel is not planning to make any additional offers in negotiations for the release of Gilad Shalit.

The prime minister explained that Israel is anxious to secure the captured soldier’s release, but he is unwilling to make additional gestures towards releasing additional terrorists. The prime minister explained Jerusalem’s last response to Hamas’ demands was the final one.

The Russian leader offered to assist in negotiations towards obtaining Shalit’s release. A member of the entourage quoted anonymously in the daily Haaretz stated the prime minister called on the Russian president not to “legitimize” Hamas, pointing out Israel’s disapproval with some of his pro-Hamas statements.

Included in the prime minister’s entourage are Minister of Diaspora Affairs Yuli Edelstein and Likud MK Ze’ev Elkin, both fluent in Russian. Also accompanying Mr. Netanyahu is Prof. Uzi Arad, his national security advisor.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)