The Prime Minister's spokesman Yoav Hendel said that the changes in the Middle East and the upheaval throughout the Arab World played a key role in bringing about the deal for Schalit's release.
"The so-called Arab Spring and the changes in the region have created this opportunity,The change has also led Hamas to take a more pragmatic approach and enabled the government to negotiate and make the deal."
"We are still calling on Fatah to return to negotiations, and are not interested in toppling or weakening Fatah."
"This is a difficult balance between insuring the security of Israeli citizens and bringing Gilad home."
"The price Israel will pay is difficult, but was enough to be brought the cabinet."