Dichter: We’ll release prisoners if necessary

[Scurrilous]

Internal security minister says ‘Israel will release Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit’s freedom. Adds: Release of prisoners in exchange for end to Qassam rocket fire on Israel an attainable goal

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3272480,00.html

<snip>

"Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter said Friday that “Israel will release (Palestinian security) prisoners to free kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit. We’ve done it in the past to free hostages and in exchange for calm.”

“We all hope Gilad will come home safe and sound,” Dichter said.

Shalit was kidnapped from an IDF outpost near Gaza 12 days ago.

Speaking to business executives at Tel Aviv’s David Intercontinental hotel, the internal security minister alluded to the possibility that releasing prisoners remains an option in future affairs as well.

“There is no reason that a period of calm will not prevail in the future, and this may entail the release of prisoners,” he said. “The release of prisoners in exchange for an end to the Qassam rocket fire on Israel is an attainable goal.”


Dichter: Israel may release prisoners if Shalit is freed

<snip>

"Public Security Minister Avi Dichter suggested Friday that Israel might release Palestinian prisoners as part of an Egyptian proposal to win freedom for abducted Israel Defense Forces soldier Gilad Shalit.

Dichter said that once Shalit is released and militants stop rocket attacks from Gaza, "then, in a goodwill gesture, Israel, as it has in the past, knows how to free prisoners."

Dichter's comments were relayed by his spokesman, Ofer Lefler.

Hamas sources said Thursday that the group would agree to release the Shalit and stop firing Qassam rockets at Israel in exchange for the release of all female Palestinian prisoners and about 30 prisoners who have been in Israeli jails for more than 20 years.

Also Thursday, Shalit's father called on Israel to free Palestinian security prisoners jailed in Israel in exchange for the release of his son.

This was the first time Noam Shalit has publicly voiced support for a prisoner exchange, a demand Hamas has been making on Israel since the soldier was captured."

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/734605.html

[MrPrax]

1. Finally...calmer heads step up n/t

[Tom Joad]

2. Over 300 Palestinian children are being held. Release the prisoners.