Hamas officials in Egypt for truce talks

Discussions to be held Sun. focusing on "working paper" to consolidate cease-fire, fate of Schalit.

rafah crossing egypt gaza 248.88 (photo credit: AP [file])
rafah crossing egypt gaza 248.88
(photo credit: AP [file])
Hamas officials based in Gaza have returned to Egypt for more talks with Egyptian mediators on the Gaza truce. Speaking Friday after crossing to Egypt from the Strip, the officials said discussions would focus on a "working paper" to consolidate the cease-fire with Israel following Operation Cast Lead. One official said the talks - slated for Sunday - would also address the fate of IDF soldier Gilad Schalit, held captive in Gaza since 2006. The Hamas officials all spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the negotiations. The six-day-old truce remains fragile. Israel wants to halt terrorist arms smuggling, while Hamas wants an end to the Gaza blockade. The Islamic organization also demands the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.