Egypt, Jihad sign deal to release 20 affiliates

Gaza – Ma'an – Egypt and the Islamic Jihad movement have signed an agreement to secure the release of 20 supports in Egyptian custody, officials announced Tuesday.

Two Islamic Jihad detainees were released Tuesday, identified as Mohammad Al-Masri and Ali Ayyad, who were arrested upon arrival from Syria. Three party affiliates remain in custody but will be released under the deal, which was signed by Islamic Jihad leader Nafeth Azzam.

Since July, Egypt has released six Islamic Jihad prisoners, identified as Talal Abed Al-A’al, Ahmad Hajaj, Mohammad Al-Hashim, Ibrahim Al-Mousa, Hamza Ihmeid, and Obeida Al-Gharablie.