‘Sustainable calm’ proposal splits Israel and Hamas - BBC News

Israel says it has four issues with the draft ceasefire deal - including an end to war.

1 day agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, ReutersImage caption, Israel wants to be able to continue fighting Hamas, while the group is seeking a permanent ceasefire (file image)By James LandaleDiplomatic correspondentAfter months of stalemate, the search for peace in Gaza has reached a critical stage. UN chief Antonio Guterres says it is a "decisive moment for the Palestinian and Israeli people and for the fate of the entire region".

There seems to be common ground between most sides about the principles: a ceasefire should take place alongside the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Various draft agreements have been drawn up, setting out a complex process of how it would all work.

There is some disagreement over the detail of what should happen to whom and when and in what order. Israeli officials say, for example, that its female soldiers should be released earlier than envisaged.

They also say the texts should be clearer that the first 33 hostages to be released must be alive and are worried about not having a veto over which Palestinian prisoners would be released.

These are issues that could potentially be surmounted through negotiation.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-68971818

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