Jerusalem (CNN) -- Following an investigation, Israel apologized to Egypt this week over an August incident in which five Egyptian border guards were killed, the Israeli Ministry of Defense said. The apology, issued Tuesday, was overshadowed by news that a deal had been reached for the release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who was captured by the Palestinian group Hamas more than five years ago. However, it was largely seen as an olive branch to the transitional Egyptian government, as relations between Israel and Egypt have become strained in recent months. On August 18, militants crossed into Israel from Egyptian territory to attack Israeli civilian targets. Eight Israeli citizens were killed in the attacks, which Israel has said were the work of a jihadist group based in Gaza. Responding to the attacks, Israeli troops killed five Egyptian border guards while in pursuit of the militants.
@highlight
NEW: Netanyahu thanks Egyptian field marshal for assistance with deal for Shalit's return
@highlight
In August incident, 5 Egyptian border guards were killed by Israeli troops
@highlight
Relations between the two nations have been strained in recent months
Israel issued a rare statement of regret three days after the incident, after @placeholder suggested it was recalling its ambassador in protest.