Shalit deal reported progressing

CAIRO, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Negotiations for the release of captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit are close to fruition and a deal could be in place next week, Fox News reported Friday.

The U.S. news network, citing sources close to the talks in Egypt, said there are still some issues on the table, including where to send released Palestinian prisoners from East Jerusalem. Hamas is not expected to respond to Israeli queries until Tuesday, after the conclusion of the Islamic holiday Eid al-Adha or Feast of the Sacrifice.

"What we are seeing now is the end game," one source told Fox.

Shalit, 23, was captured more than three years ago in a cross-border raid from Gaza. He has been held by Hamas for most of his time in captivity.

Israel is expected to give up scores of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for his freedom.

Arab news media reported Thursday that the identity of Palestinians to be released is a snag, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported. They said Israel has balked at demands for the release of several top Hamas military leaders.