Egyptian officials reportedly sent a stern warning to Hamas leaders that the current Israeli administration will respond with a stern hand to continued attacks.

According to a report appearing in the London-based el-Hayat, Hamas passed the warning along to other terror organizations, Islamic Jihad and Popular Democratic Front. Hamas maintains they are responsible for the attacks, insisting it is adhering the ceasefire that has been in place since Operation Cast Lead.

The Egyptian message reportedly states that continued rocket fire into southern Israel will result in additional pain and suffering for the residents of Gaza.

In the meantime, an Egyptian source reports Egypt is seeking to persuade Israel to resume mediated talks with Hamas towards a long-term Gaza ceasefire, which Israel has halted until such time Hamas releases Gilad Shalit.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)