Hamas: Captured Israeli soldier in good condition

Palestinian government's spokesman Ghazi Hamad announced on Monday that the soldier, Corporal Gilad Shalit, seized by militant groups last June, "was calm and in good health."

During an interview with Palestinian radio Voice of Palestine, Hamas said he was in contact with Shalit's father and had assured him of Shalit's condition.

This was the first formal announcement by the government over contacts and efforts to seek the release of Shalit in exchange for a number of Palestinian prisoners.

Hamad also said that efforts "were underway to reach a swap on exchanging prisoners," adding that Egypt was playing a key role in the efforts.

A day earlier, Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haneya revealed that Hamas was in contact with Israeli parties and diplomats, adding that these contacts were "motivated by humanitarian levels."

Corporal Gilad Shalit, who turned 20 on Monday, was captured ina cross-border raid on June 25, for which three militant groups including Hamas' armed wing claimed responsibility. The militants want Israel to free Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Shalit's release.

Three days after Shalit's capture, Israel launched its biggest offensive into Gaza since its withdrawal last year, which is still going on. Over 191 Palestinians and one Israeli soldier have been killed in the offensive.

/Xinhua/