Israel releases 398 Palestinians

Israel has released almost 400 Palestinian prisoners, as part of a ceasefire deal agreed in February.
Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon pledged to free 900 inmates in a deal with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Some 500 were let out soon after, but the second release was delayed while Israel said the Palestinians should do more to stop militant attacks.

Two men chose not to be released - one so he could finish exams and the other to stay with his brother - Israel said.

The 398 detainees who were freed on Thursday were taken by bus from Israel to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

They waved and many made the V for victory sign as they stepped off into Palestinian territory.

"I am happy to be free but thousands of others are still behind bars," Yousef Habas, 31, told the Reuters news agency at a checkpoint near the town of Ramallah.