Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak said Israel may free more Palestinian prisoners than expected as part of a possible deal featuring the release of an Israeli soldier held by Palestinians. "The outlines of the agreement, which is not yet complete, affirm the release of the Israeli prisoner in exchange for an initial large batch of women and children and then the release of Palestinian prisoners in three batches," the state news agency MENA said, quoting Mubarak speaking on Sunday night.
"The president did not specify the number to be released but he indicated that the Israeli side had shown its willingness to release a number greater than expected," MENA said on Monday.
Meanwhile, bodyguards for Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh opened fire outside the parliament building on Monday to disperse a crowd of protesters angry over the government's failure to end a growing economic crisis in the Gaza Strip. One woman was injured.
As Haniyeh stepped out of the car, more gunfire broke out. Under heavy guard, Haniyeh moved slowly up the steps of the building, smiling and turning back to wave to the crowd. He did not speak to the protesters.
