Security Cabinet objects to ceasefire with Hamas

     The Security Cabinet met Wednesday and discussed the Egyptian efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as relayed after Former US President Jimmy Carter's visit to the region. The majority of the cabinet ministers voiced their objection to the move, saying any ceasefire on Israel's part would only allow Hamas to regroup, rearm and recruit more operatives before it continues its attacks on Israel.Internal Security Minister Avi Dichter, who took part in the meeting, said the move might be perceived as legitimizing Hamas: "We have to reach a ceasefire from a state of deterrence, while making sure we can increase the chances to free Gilad Shalit." Shin Bet Chief Yuval Diskin and Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai appeared before the cabinet and briefed the ministers on the situation in Gaza. Diskin warned of Hamas continuing to gain strength in Gaza and briefed the ministers on the various intelligence indicating terror groups will try to carry out a major attack during Israel's Independence Day celebrations.(16,12)