Sep. 20, 2006 11:57 | Updated Sep. 20, 2006 18:04 Lab tests confirm Shalit wrote letter By AP AND JPOST.COM STAFF

Lab tests have confirmed the authenticity of the letter purportedly written by kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit and sent last week to his father, Israeli officials said Wednesday.

The officials also confirmed that Egypt was mediating a swap in which Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners for Shalit, who is being held by Hamas terrorists.

The inside sources who confirmed the details, however, spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

The Prime Minister's Office declined comment Wednesday.