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Source: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/733614.html
Palestinians Back Kidnapping
(Ha'aretz) Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff - Israel is demanding that the Hamas leadership in Gaza act to release the captured soldier immediately. The demand is backed by the U.S. (even the Security Council refused to denounce the IDF's operation in the Gaza Strip). On the other hand, complying with Israel's demand would be seen by the Palestinian public as surrender and cost Hamas sympathy. At this stage, at least, Hamas prefers a confrontation with Israel to one with its people. Public opinion polls in the territories show that 80% of Palestinians object to releasing Cpl. Gilad Shalit unless prisoners are released as part of the deal. Fatah officials say if Israel releases prisoners, it would be a death blow to Fatah's chances to return to power in the PA. The achievement would strengthen Hamas and spur it to capture more soldiers.