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 21 August 2008 21:36 BST

Fragile Gaza truce holds into second day

Friday, 20 Jun 2008 15:58
Fragile truce between Israeli government and Hamas holds, raising hopes Gaza blockade could be lifted
The fragile truce between the Israeli government and Hamas appears to be holding, raising hopes that the crippling blockade that has been inflicted on the Gaza Strip may soon be lifted.

Before that can happen however the ceasefire must hold for at least three days before Israel will consider any concessions on the blockade, the first of which would be to allow much-needed fuel supplies through the border.

Both sides are keen to discuss prisoner exchange with Israel seeking the release of one of its soldiers, Corporal Gilad Shalit, who has been held prisoner by Hamas for almost two years.

However, mistrust persists on both sides of the Egyptian-brokered deal. Israeli tanks have continued to patrol the border with Gaza while Palestinian gunmen are reported to have their weapons close to hand should they need them.

Ehud Olmert, Israel's prime minister, has threatened an Israeli invasion of Gaza if Hamas breaks the ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader in Gaza, has said that peace would hold as long as "all Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people" ceases.

Mr Olmert plans to travel to Egypt on Tuesday to resume talks on the proposed prisoner swap with Hamas.

Yesterday United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-moon joined world leaders in welcoming the ceasefire.

"The secretary general looks forward to all sides acting with care and responsibility in ensuring that this cessation of violence endures," his spokesperson said.End of story


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