The daily Yisrael HaYom newspaper reports that Hamas officials in Gaza have given Hamas command in Damascus the green light to move ahead with diligence regarding negotiations to reach an agreement with Israel pertaining to the release of Gilad Shalit. The Israeli daily quotes Arabic media sources which reported the events over the weekend.

The report states that Egyptian defense officials and PA officials both confirm the validity of the report, stating Moussa Abu Marzouq on Friday evening visited Gaza for the first time in 20 years, meeting with senior Hamas military faction commanders.

Hamas leaders in Gaza exerted significant pressure on the Damascus leader, realizing a deal with Israel will bring about the release of family members of many Gazans, as well as leading to the opening of Gaza crossings.

The family of the captured soldier is reportedly monitoring reports with anticipation, but remains extremely cautious in light of recent reports that a prisoner exchange deal is imminent. It appears they and activists working towards Gilad’s release are maintaining a low profile for now in an effort to permit the outgoing administration to close a deal before stepping down.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)