Palestine-Israel-Ceasefire
Hamas has turned down a request from Israel to include release of Gilad Shalit as part of ceasefire term.

Hamas leader Mahmud Zahar responded in a speech in Gaza City by saying: "Whoever thinks that the Shalit issue will be settled for free as part of the period of calm is completely wrong."
Egypt has embarked on mediation efforts to broker a ceasefire between Gaza Strip and Tel Aviv.

"The issue of a prisoner exchange is completely separate from the period of calm."
Hamas has demanded the release of 450 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the return of Cpl Shalit.

Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal said in March that the soldier was still alive, and was being well treated.