Cairo voiced its "indignation" on Thursday over Israel's decision to link a Egypt-brokered ceasefire in Gaza with Hamas to the release of a captured soldier. Cairo "feels indignation" after Wednesday's vote by Israel's security cabinet to make a truce conditional on the release of Gilad Shalit, a senior official told AFP.
"Israel has demolished its credibility" and this attitude will "complicate the situation," said the official. "It was clear from the beginning that the issue of the soldier was not linked to the truce agreement," he added.
"Egypt will not change its position. The Shalit case cannot be linked to the truce," he said.
Earlier, Egypt's foreign ministry spokesman said Israel's demand is a blow to the Egyptian efforts. According to the AP, Hossam Zaki said linking Sgt. Gilad Shalit to the truce will "hinder any chances for a cease-fire."
