Israel rejects ultimatum over Soldier
Pakistan Times Wire Service

JERUSALEM: An Israeli military official on Monday rejected a one-day deadline imposed by Palestinian militants holding an Israeli soldier demanding that the Jewish state free Palestinian prisoners.

"We are studying the statement and for the moment are sticking to the official position expressed by the prime minister rejecting any negotiations with the kidnappers or giving into any blackmail," the official said.

Three Palestinian militant groups that abducted the teenage Israeli serviceman eight days ago on Monday set a deadline of 6:00 am (0300 GMT) on Tuesday for Israel to meet their demands to free Palestinian prisoners, warning of unspecified consequences.●