With the Israeli announcement of ceasefire there is apparently some movements in the Israel-Palestine relationship, which was since long completely blocked. However, when the roads seem to be set for the peace efforts, things are definitely complicated to be solved without mutual concessions and prize. As of now, besides ceasefire no further positive signs seems to be emerging. Both the sides are apparently unbending in their approach amidst a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. And if they fail to soften their stance, any positive result will continue to be an illusion.
The announcement of cease fire was made against a backdrop of increased and intensified international diplomacy. However, diplomatic efforts are required to maintain its intensity without which the fragile cease fire will not remain in effect for long. As a matter of fact, Israel has again put forward a call for conditional talk, which has been resisted in Palestine. On the other hand, there is a persisting need of placing national unity government in Palestine, without which no peace efforts would be yielding.
The prevailing situation is not seemingly matured enough for bringing both sides across the table. However, among political circle of both the sides, Israel and Palestine, there is a profound weariness, and this is right situation strategically to sort out their problems. Moreover, before coming across the table for talks Hamas and Fatah are essentially required to bury their differences and install a government in Palestine of mutual consent which will be acceptable to international community as well.
Ehud Olmert has extended two conditions for talks. The conditions are
1. The Palestinians must release the Israeli soldier, Cpl Gilad Shalit, who was captured by militants in June.
2. They must set up a national-unity government committed to recognising Israel and renouncing violence.
On the other hand, Hamas leveling the recent move as ‘conspiracy’ and ‘a new maneuver’ has alleged, Mr Olmert is speaking about the Palestinian state without giving details about the borders.
Clearly, Hamas is indicating towards the specification of border area which is of course the main bone of contention between parties involved.
Despite, the ceasefire came into force on Sunday there are reports that rockets have been exchanged in Gaza. Further, the ceasefire has not been extended to West Bank where reportedly two Palestinian killed in exchange of fire.
Therefore, some concessions even Israel must make to the Palestinian authority when an agreed political authority installed in Palestine, which would recognize Israel, something that Hamas has been refusing to do, so far.
