GAZA, June 15 (UPI) -- The captors of BBC correspondent Alan Johnston, who was kidnapped in Gaza, said Friday he would be free within 24 hours.
The Scotsman cited a "close source," saying the promise came shortly after Hamas -- which has taken control of Gaza after a week of fighting -- pledged to work for his release.
Abu Obeid, a Hamas spokesman, said at a news conference Friday the group would not permit Johnston to remain a prisoner, The Times of London said.
"We warn against not releasing him," Obeid added.
Johnston was the only European reporter based in Gaza when he was abducted in March as he drove between his home and office. He had been in the territory for almost three years and was about to be transferred out.
The Army of Islam, which released a video of Johnston in May, demanded the release of a number of prisoners being held in Britain in exchange for his release.
