Fight between Hamas and Israel stall
Reports on talks between Hamas and Israel may be overly optimistic.† Both groups reacted cautiously at the news that their talks to exchange hundreds of Palestinian prisoners for one Israeli soldier may conclude this month.
Unidentified sources noted the talks were to finish before the Muslim festival Eid al-Adha, which begins next week. Talks are being mediated by German and Egyptian authorities.
Both parties indicated negotiation efforts were continuing, but neither offered an official statement confirming or denying the reports.