Livni conditions release of long-held captives

Chief Israeli negotiator has conditioned the release of any more Palestinian captive under a deal with the Palestinian Authority to the PA head's submission to the Israeli demands, including recognition of Isreal as a 'Jewish state'.

'Justice' Minister Tzipi livni, speaking at a conference, linked the scheduled March 29 release of 26 long-held captives to PA 'willingness to push forward with peace talks.'

"In order to advance serious negotiations, we will all need to take decisions and prove we are determined to reach an agreement and real peace. That burden of proof is also on the Palestinians' shoulders," she was quoted on her Facebook page as saying.

"Accordingly, we will examine the issue of the prisoners, meaning that the key to the cells of the Palestinian prisoners is also to be found in the hands of Abu Mazen (Abbas) and the decisions he will take in the coming days."

Livni's remarks came after Israeli officials suggested the release might not go ahead unless the Palestinians agree to extend talks beyond a looming April 29 deadline.

So far, 78 of 104 veteran Palestinian captives have been freed with the final group due to be released on March 29, pending approval by the Israeli cabinet.