Senior Hamas terrorist Mahmoud al-Zahar, who is based in Gaza, told the German Der Spiegel weekly that a deal with Israel for the release of Gilad Shalit is a matter of weeks or perhaps a maximum of months. He stated that Hamas is genuinely interested in reaching an agreement and bringing the matter to an end, adding there is still the issue of 125 names, terrorists who Israel in the past has refused to release, indicating Hamas is unwilling to exhibit flexibility in the matter.

(Article written on the first day Chol Hamoed in Eretz Yisrael – Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)