Palestinian militants in Cairo for truce talks

LEADERS of Palestinian Islamic militant factions are in Cairo for ceasefire talks with the Egyptians, days before Egypt is to host talks between Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

Newly-elected Abbas has coaxed a de facto truce from factions waging a four-year-old uprising and Israel has responded to the lull by reducing military operations.

However, militants have a long list of demands before declaring any formal cease-fire.