Special report: Concern mounts over Yasser Arafat's health

File photo of Yasser Arafat. (Xinhua File photo)

    JERUSALEM, Nov. 10 (Xinhuanet) -- Israel may release jailed Palestinians after the death of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, Army Radio reported Wednesday.

    Unnamed senior Israeli officials were quoted as saying that the possible release is a gesture intended to strengthen the moderate leadership within the Palestinian National Authority, which is considered favorable by Israeli Foreign and Defense Ministries.

    However, the final decision rests in the hands of Prime MinisterAriel Sharon, added the radio.

    US officials have recently sent messages to Israel, favoring measures that could strengthen the new Palestinian leadership in a succession phase.

    Sharon, however, is said to be cool of extending gestures at this stage. Israeli officials have also warned that if Israel is seen excessively close to the Palestinian leadership, this would undermine the new leaders in the eyes of the Palestinian public. Enditem