Freedom hopes fade for journalist

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There had been hopes that the reporter would walk free at some point soon after Hamas officials indicated that his release was imminent.

But there is still no evidence that the captured BBC correspondent's ordeal was over.

After taking control of the Gaza Strip last week, Hamas officials said they had made contact with Mr Johnston's kidnappers and would work to win his release.

Negotiations were said to be taking place between Hamas and Mr Johnston's captors through a mediator.

Earlier, Hamas spokesman Islam Shahwan said: "All I can say is that Alan will be free very soon."

Mr Johnston, 45, from Argyll, has been held since March when he was snatched by a group believed to have some links to Hamas.

A message purporting to be from his captors has demanded the release of Islamic prisoners, including a cleric being held in Britain.

He was seen for the first time since his abduction in a video posted two weeks ago on a website used by Islamic militants. He appeared calm and said he was being well-treated and was in good health.

His disappearance is the longest of any Western journalist abducted in Gaza and has sparked numerous protests and solidarity marches in London and the Palestinian territories.

Palestinian officials have said they know where to find Mr Johnston, but have held back on raiding the hideout at Britain's request, for fear of harming him.

The Foreign Office said they were aware of reports saying he may soon be released and that they were investigating.