Egypt to free American-Israeli citizen

Israeli shorthand for militants -- on the list. It is assumed that the Egyptians to be freed are mostly smugglers and people seeking asylum or work.

Last week, Egypt was instrumental in mediating a deal that won freedom for an Israeli soldier, Sgt. Gilad Schalit, held for more than five years by the militant Hamas rulers of Gaza.

Grapel's father, Daniel Grapel, spoke briefly to Israel's Channel 10 TV from his home in New York Monday.

"I haven't been officially notified, but I do know that things are happening between the U.S., Egyptian and Israeli governments," he said.