NABLUS // The Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas says Israel will free hundreds of prisoners as a goodwill gesture before an upcoming Muslim holiday.
Mr Abbas said at a conference in the northern West Bank town of Nablus today that Israel will release 250 prisoners before Eid al Adha, an important Muslim holiday. The holiday is expected to take place on Dec 8.
Muslims follow a lunar calendar, and the expected date of religious holidays can vary slightly. The Israel prime minister Ehud Olmert announced last week he would release the prisoners.
A spokeswoman for the Israeli prime minister says Mr Olmert is expected to set a release date after he meets with Mr Abbas again. The issue of thousands of prisoners in Israeli jails is extremely sensitive for Palestinians.
* AP
Sukuk explained
Sukuk are Sharia-compliant financial certificates issued by governments, corporates and other entities. While as an asset class they resemble conventional bonds, there are some significant differences. As interest is prohibited under Sharia, sukuk must contain an underlying transaction, for example a leaseback agreement, and the income that is paid to investors is generated by the underlying asset. Investors must also be prepared to share in both the profits and losses of an enterprise. Nevertheless, sukuk are similar to conventional bonds in that they provide regular payments, and are considered less risky than equities. Most investors would not buy sukuk directly due to high minimum subscriptions, but invest via funds.
A State of Passion
Directors: Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi
Stars: Dr Ghassan Abu-Sittah
Rating: 4/5