HAMAS WANTS 1,400 PRISONERS FOR SHALIT

Hamas Demands 1,400 Palestinian Prisoners for Captured Israeli Soldier - Nidal al-Mughrabi (Reuters)
Hamas will not release Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier captured by Gaza militants in a cross-border raid in June 2006, unless Israel meets its demand to free nearly 1,400 Palestinian prisoners, including 350 with life sentences, Hamas leader Osama al-Muzaini said in Gaza on Wednesday.

See also Poll: Israelis Unwilling to Free Palestinian Murderers (JTA)
Tuesday's Ma'ariv published a survey showing that 67% of Israelis would oppose the release of Palestinians imprisoned for killing Israelis, even if this were a condition for the return of captive soldier Gilad Shalit. Asked whether the Olmert government should accept Hamas' recent offer of a truce in Gaza, 59% said no and 36% said yes.

With Shalit on table, Israel weighs ceasefire with Hamas
JERUSALEM (JTA) -- Although they are not talking to each other directly, Israel and Hamas may be about to strike a deal that would include a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the abducted Israeli soldier Cpl. Gilad Shalit.