The German mediator involved in shuttle diplomacy between Israel and Hamas towards obtaining the release of Gilad Shalit is scheduled to return to the region in April, Arab media reported on Saturday.

On Sunday, the soldier’s parents, Noam and Aviva are heading to Geneva to address a United Nations Human Rights function, addressing the forum on their son’s behalf. Prior to leaving for Geneva, they are planning to meet with visiting UN leader Ban ki-Moon.

Elsewhere, in southern Israel, Shalit activists were on hand when UN Secretary-General Ban ki-Moon crossed Erez Crossing into Gaza, reminding him that Shalit remains imprisoned by Hamas, deprived of basic humanitarian visitations.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)