Palestinian Authority demands release of Gaza Strip prisoners by Israel News
Palestinian Authority demands release of Gaza Strip prisoners by Israel

[JURIST] Palestinian Minister of Prisoners' Affairs Sufian Abu Zaydeh said Monday that the Palestinian Authority is demanding that the Israeli government release some 650 prisoners arrested during the Israeli settlement process of the Gaza Strip [JURIST news archive]. Palestinian officials have hailed the withdrawal as a truly meaningful step in peace between the two peoples, but have warned that the continued incarceration of prisoners arrested during the occupation of the Gaza Strip would taint the disengagement, and would lead to continued distrust of the Israeli government. Abu Zaydeh added that the prisoners should be released following the complete withdrawal of all Israeli settlers and military personnel. Both sides of the conflict are acting cautiously to avoid any unnecessary violence. JURIST's Paper Chase has continuing coverage of Israel and the Palestinian Authority [JURIST news archives]. AFP has more.