Olmert Announces Prisoner Release
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.
SHARM EL-SHEIK, Egypt (AP) – Israeli Prime Minister Olmert said Monday he will release 250 Fatah members from Israeli prisons in a goodwill gesture aimed at boosting Palestinian Arab President Abbas after Hamas’ victory in Gaza.
Mr. Olmert made the announcement at a summit with Mr. Abbas and the leaders of Egypt and Jordan in this Red Sea resort that the Arabs and Palestinians are hoping can push forward the peace process and strengthen Abbas’ hand.
“As a gesture of good will towards the Palestinians, I will bring before the Israeli Cabinet a proposal to free 250 Fatah prisoners who do not have blood on their hands, after they sign a commitment not to return to violence,” Mr.Olmert said in a speech to the gathering.
