Israel is no longer demanding the release of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit in exchange for the opening of crossings between Gaza and southern Israel, senior Hamas official Iman Taha said Thursday. Israeli officials have not yet responded to Taha's claim.
Last week Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said Israel would not open Gaza crossings until Shalit is returned. Gaza terrorists say they will not agree to a temporary ceasefire unless Gaza crossings are opened.