Any day now...Gaza – Ma'an – Palestinian Prime Minister Isma'il Haniyeh has, on Wednesday, stated that his government is making "intensive efforts to hold a meeting with the group believed to be the captors of the BBC reporter Alan Johnston, in order to end the kidnapping".
What, did he walk down the hall?
Haniyeh stated, "The issue of the kidnapped journalist has become inter-related with the case of the captured Israeli soldier, [Corporal] Gil'ad Shalit, and other profiles, and we take the issue very seriously that it became one of four issues which we discuss with European and other countries."
The other three issues, money, money, and...money.
Prime Minister Haniyeh revealed, in a celebration to launch the new "Palestine" newspaper in Gaza City, that the captors have submitted 10 legal-religious questions, related to the capture of Johnston, in addition to seven demands, which have subsequently been reduced to three demands.
Negotiations continue, split now 30-70.
The demands are related to the Palestinian situation, and a cabinet member was entrusted to follow up the entire issue, after he meets with the group.
Sounds like a "mysterious" group. With mysterious objects and mysterious gunfire...
Haniyeh said that the captors were "confused in regards to the political and religious legality of the capturing". He said: "From the beginning of the kidnap, I made contacts with the heads of the security services, we arranged a joint operation room and we thought seriously of using force to reach the place where Johnston might be kept." It is understood that British officials in London requested that the PA not use force in a potential rescue attempt.
Yeah, no use Alan gets his feet blown off...
Haniyeh added, "the case of Johnston has become a source of pain for all Palestinian people, and for journalists in particular. The government is still endeavouring to secure the release of Johnston and his safe and healthy return." He also applauded the role played by journalists and the media, and highlighted the importance of professionalism, credibility and objectivity in dealing with all issues.
Worried about your mouthpiece, Ismail?