Prime Minister Ehud Olmert asked Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to arrange for kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit to speak with his parents.
Prime Minister Olmert promised that the IDF would not attack Gaza terrorists who fire on Israel, in order to allow Hamas the opportunity to discipline anyone who violates the ceasefire agreement.
Two Years Ago Today at IsraelNN
Hamas released an audio tape with the voice of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit stating, “I am Gilad ben [son of] Noam Shalit. I am captured by Hamas... Mom and Dad, my brother and sister, I send regards to you and my friends in the IDF.” The second part of the audio tape calls on the government to release Palestinian Authority (PA) prisoners and terrorists in exchange for his release. The recording is the first sign that the soldier is alive.
--Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said he would consider supplying weapons, including bulletproof vests and tanks, to groups loyal to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas.
Three Years Ago Today at IsraelNN
Hamas terrorists killed two soldiers in a multi-pronged attack on a military base at a Gaza crossing checkpoint outside of Gaza. A third soldier, Gilad Shalit, was kidnapped by Hamas and allied terrorists.
--Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said that the government will not negotiate with the Hamas-led Palestinian Authority for the release of Gilad Shalit. He told a meeting of the Security Cabinet, “We will respond and the response will be mighty."