Speaking at a memorial ceremony for Israeli founding father David Ben Gurion in November 2006, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert called for the release of Gilad Shalit and raised the possibility of releasing Palestinian prisoners:
"I understand the importance which the Palestinian society attributes to the issue of prisoners.
"I hereby declare that when Gilad Shalit is released and returned to his family, safe and sound, the Government of Israel will be willing to release numerous Palestinian prisoners – including ones who were sentenced to lengthy prison terms – in order to increase the trust between us and prove that our hand is truly extended in genuine peace.
"I said it before Gilad Shalit was abducted, and I have not changed my position.
"I know that many Palestinian families yearn for the day when their loved ones will return home. This day could be very close." Read more>>