Arafat replies to Gaddafi's request to free Hamas leader

Libyan leader Colonel Moammar Gaddafi received a reply from Palestinian President Yasser Arafat on lifting the house arrest imposed on Sheikh Yassin, the spiritual mentor of Hamas.

Libyan diplomatic sources said yesterday that Arafat stated in his message that he greatly appreciates Gaddafi's concern and that his request will be taken into consideration. He also informed Gaddafi on the circumstances regarding Sheikh Yassin.

Arafat's message came as a reply to a communique from Gaddafi's delegation last Friday calling on the Palestinians to lift the house arrest imposed on Hamas opposition spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.