Israeli sources: We proposed exchange deal to Hamas

Security sources in Israel revealed yesterday evening that an offer was made to Hamas through Egypt for the release of some if its prisoners who were captured during last summer’s offensive on the Gaza Strip. The offer was for the return of the remains of 20 Palestinians’ bodies in return for the two Israeli soldiers, Hadar Goldin and Shaul Aaron.

Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth quoted the source saying indirect discussions had taken place through Egypt during which the offer was made.

According to the report, the proposal is still on the table however Hamas is insisting on separating the issue of the two missing soldiers from the issue of the two deceased soldiers.

Hamas, the report said, is trying to use the captured and dead soldiers as bargaining tools for the release of Palestinian prisoners. “They want us to release prisoners in return for information concerning the prisoners they hold.”