The return of Hamas negotiators to Egypt for further talks on a possible ceasefire agreement with Israel, including a deal for the release of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit, has fueled speculation that outgoing Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is trying to establish conditions for the next coalition.
Olmert will remain acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert until a new coalition is formed after the election, a process that could take several weeks. However, an Egyptian newspaper reported Monday morning that Israel and Hamas, through Egyptian negotiators, will reach an agreement in the next two days.
Prime Minister Olmert has vowed to bring him back before leaving office, and if he promises to release hundreds of Hamas terrorists' in return for Shalit, the next government might face media pressure to carry out the agreement, if it is made.