Israel released 477 terrorists in the first stage of the Gilad Shalit prisoner release deal with Hamas and an additional 550 terrorists await release in December. Nevertheless, PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) is calling upon Israel to add to the list, insisting former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert spoke with him of a larger number. He is pushing for the release of Fatah Tanzim faction leader Marwan Barghouti, a reality that would significantly boost Abu Mazen’s popularity, as well as the release of hundreds of additional terrorists, those affiliated with his Fatah faction, realizing that he must gain popularity to counter Hamas’ gaining momentum as the PA becomes increasingly radical.

Abu Mazen insists that this promise was made to him by Olmert, and he was told to remain silent as to avoid compromising ongoing efforts to negotiate a deal for Shalit’s release. Now that the deal has been made, he feels betrayed by the current Israeli administration.

Speaking with Time Magazine, the Fatah leader Abu Mazen is signaling a readiness to go to elections in January, immediately following the required 90 period after announcing such a move. While he signals Hamas would be included, this is yet to be decided, possibly when Fatah and Hamas officials meet next month.

Hamas is now feeling a boost in popularity following it success in negotiating the Gilad Shalit prisoner release deal. Such a move could have a direct impact in an upcoming election in the PA (Palestinian Authority).

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)