It is hard to believe just how far Israel has gone in efforts to negotiate a deal with Hamas. A nation that only a few years ago known for not negotiating with terrorists, maintaining a firm stance and principled position regarding the release of terrorists, permitted none other than Izzadin el-Kassam commander Ahmad Jabri, number one on Israel’s wanted list, to lead the talks in Cairo. He was permitted to leave Gaza for Cairo to head the talks.

Israel’s negotiating partner did not change his stripes for the talks and stated, “From our part, Shalit can sit another year until we get what we want,” and that is just what happened.

Moshir el-Matzri, another senior Hamas leader in Gaza released a statement blaming Israel, exclaiming “Israel will bear the entire responsibility for the failed talks,” adding “the only solution is Israel’s total acceptance of all our demands”.

Hamas leaders in Gaza have made it crystal clear; that while there are negotiations, Hamas will make demands and Israel has the option of complying or permitting Shalit to remain in custody. Hamas will not exhibit any flexibility.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)