GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip, April 22, SPA -- A Hamas official says the group has softened its demands for a cease-fire withIsrael, the Associated Press reported. Spokesman Ghazi Hamad says Hamas is now prepared for apartial truce that would only include the Gaza Strip. Hamadsays the proposal has been relayed to Egyptian mediators. In return, Hamas wants Israel and Egypt to open theirtrade and passenger crossings with Gaza. The border hasbeen sealed since last June. Hamad said the Egyptians are now waiting for Israel'sresponse.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/548575