Palestinians Negotiate for Return of Brits

The abductions on Wednesday were the latest in a wave of kidnappings of foreigners in the chaotic Gaza Strip where Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has been struggling to establish order following Israel's withdrawal this summer

A Palestinian security official said negotiations were ongoing but he did not know when the captives would be released. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

The woman was identified as Kate Burton, 25, a worker with the Al Mezan human rights group in Gaza, said Interior Ministry spokesman Tawfiq Abu Khoussa. Her parents were kidnapped with her, Abu Khoussa said.

"This is part of a new fad of kidnapping for extortion and seeking jobs," Abu Khoussa said. He would not say whether negotiations were taking place.

In most cases, the kidnappers have sought jobs in the Palestinian security forces, the release of imprisoned relatives or other personal matters. In all cases, the victims have been released safely.

Abbas' critics have accused him of giving in to kidnappers' demands, thereby encouraging more abductions.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the latest abductions in the southern Gaza town of Rafah.

Mezan officials confirmed that Burton has worked for the agency for four months, handling human rights and fundraising responsibilities. They said she was on vacation with her parents at the time of the abduction.

"She's a good woman," said Jamil Sarhan, Mezan's executive director.

"This defames the Palestinian case and the Palestinian national struggle," Sarhan said. "We have contacted all Palestinian official armed organizations, who all condemned this and are helping us search for her from door to door."

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