It worked

Israel went after Hamas with a vengeance when Hamas kidnapped Cpl. Shalit.  No negotation; no prisoner exchanges; no nothing.  Israel wanted Shalit back, and that was it.  Apparently, Israel’s tactics against Hamas were effective, not only with regard to Cpl. Shalit, but also with regards to the thousands of rockets Hamas had been firing into Israel (something the MSM invariably forgets to mention when it reports on Israel’s incursion against Gaza):

All groups in Gaza, including Hamas, would now accept a cease-fire deal with Israel which would include releasing Gilad Shalit, according to the Palestinian Agriculture Minister, who also heads the coordinating committee of Palestinian organizations there.

Ibrahim Al-Naja said the factions were ready to stop the Qassam rocket fire if Israel’s ceased all military moves against the Palestinian factions in Gaza. They are also ready to release Shalit in exchange for guaranteeing the future release of Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas leaders did not confirm this report on Monday, but if it is true, then this is the first time that Hamas has indicated its acceptance of the Egyptian proposal to solve the crisis. 

It’s not over until it’s over, but apparently the negotiations are, for real, beginning.

Hat tip:  Captain’s Quarters