JERUSALEM, Israel -- The fate of 16 Americans who could face trial in Egypt is still uncertain.

Talks between the two countries are ongoing, but a former Israeli ambassador to Egypt believes the ordeal will soon be over.

Ambassador Yitzak Levanon was Israel's top diplomat in Egypt until late last year. He said both the Egyptians and Americans know this is not a good situation.

"I think there are ways and means to convince and to solve this problem that both sides will be satisfied with this issue," Levanon told CBN News.

Mixed messages are coming out of Cairo.

The head of Egypt's ruling military council said the U.S. and Egypt need good relations. Another government minister, however, accused Washington of funding the groups to create prolonged chaos.

The 19 U.S. citizens, including the son of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, are democracy and human rights workers from several non-governmental organizations.

They are accused of being behind anti-government protests and creating unrest in Egypt.

Levanon believes there will be a quick resolution to the problem despite the crisis.

"I am confident because the alternative is not good, and I think that both sides understand this. And I am very confident that very soon this issue will be behind us," he said.