Israel, Egypt agree to prisoner swap

JERUSALEM: Israel and Egypt have reached a deal to swap 25 Egyptian prisoners in Israeli custody for US-Israeli dual national Ilan Grapel, held by Egypt since June, a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Monday.

The deal was reached days after a successful Egyptian-brokered swap between Israel and Hamas that freed captive soldier Gilad Shalit in exchange for more than1,000 Palestinian prisoners.

It was subject to Israeli security cabinet approval widely expected to be issued at a session scheduled on Tuesday, the Israeli statement said.

Egyptian officials also confirmed the agreement. (Reuters)