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Israeli military says ceasefire now in effect after IDF pulls back from parts of Gaza | BBC News | BBC News | YouTubeToText
YouTube Transcript: Israeli military says ceasefire now in effect after IDF pulls back from parts of Gaza | BBC News
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A ceasefire agreement has been implemented, marking the initial phase of a broader peace plan. This phase focuses on the release of hostages and prisoners, with Israeli troops repositioning to agreed-upon lines.
And uh it's entitled the ceasefire
agreement goes into effect at 12:00. So
20 minutes ago. Since 12:00 it says the
IDF troops began positioning themselves
along the updated deployment lines in
preparation for the ceasefire agreement
and the return of hostages. as the IDF
troops in the southern command are
deployed in the area and will continue
to remove any immediate threat. So that
sounds like official confirmation, Hugo,
from uh the IDF. And we have been
hearing uh reports, haven't we, for the
past two days that Hamas has already
started uh gathering uh the hostages,
getting ready for uh for the handover uh
and looking for the remains, although
it's been made clear that they may not
be able to retrieve the remains of the
28 who either died in captivity or were
killed during the events of October the 7th.
Exactly. So, we're likely to see now the
preparations for the release of the of
the hostages who remain in captivity in
Gaza. 48 hostages are still there. 20 of
these these hostages are believed to
remain alive and they are expected to be
released if not altogether uh very you
know in the same moment. Uh but uh it
also seems that Hamas needs a little bit
of time to locate uh the bodies of some
of the hostages who've been killed uh in
captivity. Uh it says that it doesn't
have the precise location of all uh
bodies. Uh so uh it is going to be
obviously a very difficult moment for
some of those families. It will be a
moment for happiness for the families of
the hostages who will be returning home.
But for some of the families, the wait
So as Hugo Bacha and I I spoke to him
about an hour ago. We're going to keep
an eye on all of the latest, but let's
also look ahead a bit. We can join
Manakima Mlene who is ameritus professor
of politics at political science at
Baralan University. He's also an expert
in Israeli Palestinian uh negotiations
and helped in the past adide advising
previous Israeli delegations to peace
talks. when I'm thank you very much for
joining us on BBC News.
>> Thank you for having me.
>> When you look at the details of this
first phase of the peace plan, how does
it look to you? Does it look set for success?
success?
the there there is a chance of success
because there is a supervision and
guarantee supplied to Hamas by the
mediators and particular the United
States. In my view, Netanyahu has an
interest to stop the uh the plan after
getting back the hostages and the
bodies. The very fact that the
right-wing ministers that voted against
the deal stay in the cabinet shows
I conclude from it that Netanyahu
promised them that he will do his best
in order to end the uh the
implementation of the plan after the
first stage because Netanyahu and the
right-wing face a problem. They promise
total victory and they promise also that
the Israel is just one inch
before achieving its absolute victory
over Hamas. Now the plan in the plan
Hamas stays. Hamas is not vanished.
Hamas is will not govern Gaza but still
exist. And if Hamas decide to go into
politics to refresh and uh reframe its
political plan from 2017, it can it can
achieve much much support in the
>> Yes. And I should mention uh that as
we're speaking uh the prime minister
there's a he's put out a pre-recorded
statement now speaking in Hebrew about
uh the process so far the agreement by
the Israeli cabinet and looking ahead
we're going to get a translation of that
shortly. So let's let's continue to
discuss. You mentioned the Israeli
public. As you know, the Israeli public,
their view of peacemaking, of relations
with the Palestinians has changed and
hardened over the years. Now you have
President Trump saying to the Israeli
public he's going to work with them to
try to achieve peace. One of the
relatives of one of the hostages said to
me that he thought President Trump could
provide some leadership going forward.
How do you see that?
the uh we have a divided society. Uh
one part of the Israeli society
demonstrates in favor of having a deal
and the demonstrations took place over
two years. The Israeli government
Netanyahu in particular refused to make
a deal unless he was imposed to agree by Trump.
Trump.
uh this deal could have been and in my
view should have been implemented and agreed
agreed
many months ago but then the United
States was unwilling to impose it on on Netanyahu.
Netanyahu.
So the the other part of the Israeli society
society
resisted the the proposals the deals
that were on the table. the now the is
the those who support the government
those in the right wing have a a
cognitive dissonance a cognitive
dissonance be between seeing the
hostages back at home ending the war the
Israeli army's fatigue but the price of
releasing many Palestinian prisoners and
not achieving the war goals the war
goals that the right-wing
believed in and consumed what Netanyahu
told he told them that we are one inch
ahead of achieving a total victory and
and deleting Hamas finishing Hamas
forever. This is unachievable. This
cannot be achieved and this is not
included in the in Trump's plan.
Moreover, Hamas stays and no Israeli
ad civil administration will manage
civil affairs in Gaza Strip. It will be
an international force, international
task force and international army will
be deployed in a in a Gaza strip. This
this never happened in the West Bank
even not in Oslo agreement. The the very
fact that Trump's plan mentions uh the
the option of having a Palestinian state
sometime in the far future is also a a
new component in in the Middle East
politics. This was not included in Oslo
agreement. This is against Netanyahu's
>> as you know
>> life mission. >> Yeah.
>> Yeah.
>> Yes. As you know in the 20point plan it
refers to a political horizon without
mentioning the controversial issue of a
Palestinian state which as you mentioned
is rejected by the current Israeli
leadership. There is of course an
alternative scenario that some of the
opposition parties have said they will
provide a safety net to Prime Minister
Netanyahu if his far right-wing allies
do pull out and of course the country is
heading to elections at some point um in
the next in the next year. Is that
possible that a new leadership will
emerge with or without Prime Minister Netanyahu?
Netanyahu?
>> Maybe. But the politics will remain
almost the same. The style will be
different, the personalities will are
different, but the the policies are very
very similar. We don't have a real opposition
opposition
right now. The uh political imagination
of the Israeli opposition, the Jewish
opposition, I must say, is very very
limited. They they lack political imagination.
imagination.
And I do think that it's the the mission
of the international community and and
the peace lovers, Israeli civil society
members to to influence on the
opposition to go ahead and have a
vision. They don't have a their own
vision. They buy what they what
Netanyahu put forward as as the Israeli
So, do you do you see you don't seem to
find any uh cause for optimism at a time
when President Trump is hailing peace in
the Middle East where you've got a
coalition of actors working together in
unprecedented ways to push this forward?
I see some optimism in the very fact
that this Israeli government, this
Israeli administration failed
what on whatever it wanted to achieve.
It put forward unachievable war goals
and failed to achieve them. uh Netanyahu
ordered to attack Qatar and and made all
Arab countries and Turkey to turn
against him and put pressure on on Trump
to stabilize the the region by imposing
a deal on Netanyahu. The attack on Qatar
signaled to Turkey, to Jordan, to Egypt
that they are also exposed to Israeli
aggression. So Trump was called in by
his allies and it was and this shows
that the main partnership is between
Qatar and United States not between
Israel and United States. So what what
Netanyahu is very proud of being the uh
his own league leader in international
politics shows that this is not true. He
failed. He failed to block the uh the
deal and he failed President Trump from
putting forward a plan that the end of
the road far end there is a Palestinian
>> Manakam Klein, thank you very much. Uh
professor of political science at
Baralan University. Thank you very much
uh for joining with your reflections
founded in your law as uh an advisor to
former Israeli delegations. So as you
can see still a lot of great deal of
skepticism about the long-term future of
President Trump's 20 point peace plan
which was of course drawn up but with
the cooperation the input the advice of
many of the Arab states across the
region who we expected President Trump
spoke about that that they would put
money in to try begin to redevelop Gaza.
But look at some of these live pictures
now we're getting from the Gaza Strip
now that the ceasefire is in force.
Israeli forces have pulled back to the
agreed lines. And there's been warnings
about which routes that Palestinians can
use if they want to go north. Some of
them going along the main Al-Rasheed
coastline, leaving the south where they
have been living in tents, displaced
time and again. Many are now finally
moving north. Yesterday when they tried,
they were pushed back. Now with the
ceasefire, they can move along that
road. And the reports that we're getting
already going to
you, it's hard to say their homes,
what's left of their homes in Gaza City.
These are bittersweet moments. They feel
at last they don't have to live in a
tent, but when they go back to their
homes, it is just the rubble. But so
many say to us they prefer to be in a
tent next to their rubble than in a part
of of Gaza where they don't have access
to resources and where they really feel
uh they can't they find it very very
difficult to provide for themselves.
These are the kind of images we're going
to continue to see um as this first
phase of the peace plan unfolds. And
what are we watching for most of all is
that now about 70 hours to go before the
last of the hostages according to this
plan, 20, the remains of as many
possible that can be retrieved, 28 will
be returned to their families and the
pal hundreds of Palestinian prisoners
also reunited with their loved ones.
This is a very political moment, very
secure, a lot of sec intense security,
but also a very human moment. Great
overwhelming human emotion. We're going
to keep an eye on all the developments.
>> And as Le was saying there, this is
really overwhelming, a huge moment. We
waited for 2 years to get here. Previous
ceasefire agreements falling to the
wayside, though we had had previous
hostage releases. And that's one aspect
of the ceasefire agreement. But what we
see right now is that coastal road in
central Gaza as Palestinians are now
moving as air strikes have now ceased
for the past hour and 20 minutes.
They're now moving back to the north.
The north which is reduced to rubble as
Lee was saying. So much destruction
across Gaza. So little left and yet
people want to return to
where their homes once stood.
Now just some updates for you. The
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu said that the Israeli forces
will remain in Gaza and that is in his
words to exert pressure on Hamas until
the group disarms.
Netanyahu also said that all the
hostages will return in the coming days.
So our understanding is this initial
part of this ceasefire agreement part of
the wider peace deal plan
in which Donald Trump has been
instrumental on pushing forward. The
initial phase is the ceasefire where
which has been holding now for the past
hour and 20 minutes enabling
Palestinians to move back to their homes
or what is left of their homes. And that
will facilitate Hamas to be able to
bring the hostages, the remaining
Israeli hostages who are still alive, to
bring them to
places of safety where they can be returned.
returned.
And of course, that means as part of
this initial phase, Israeli troops, the
IDF will be moving back to an agreed
line. They will still be in Gaza. They
will still be within just over half of
the area of Gaza. So 53%
but they will be moving back from these
types of areas. But as we hear Netanyahu
saying that the forces will remain in
Gaza in order to exert pressure on Hamas
until the group disarms.
Now due to the nature of the peace deal
itself, the 20 points outlined by Donald
Trump that he was instrumental in
pushing forward, it is very vague in
terms of what disarmament actually means
for Hamas because they have consistently
said that they refuse to disarm and that
is exactly what the Israeli government
want. So, with the ambiguities and the
complexities of this plan, I caught up a
little bit earlier with our
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
think that's absolutely the case.
Whatever people are saying, uh and maybe
the next 24 hours or so that is going to
happen that they will stop those
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
and that's probably why they're
continuing them. In terms of this all
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
was that he put out a week or two ago.
And the thing about it is that if you
look at it, there is very little detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail.
There's ambiguity. There's there some
things even seem quite contradictory
inside it. So the really big diplomatic
challenge now that they've done the
first phase or agreed to that and it's
going to unfold over the next couple of
days seems pretty certain is is filling
in all of those gaps. And that is the
difficult stuff because ambiguity is
something that works quite well where
you're trying to get people to agree
but when it comes to actually
implementing you need hard uh deals.
And that's a really important point
because we are quite unclear when it
comes to a timeline for a transfer of
authority, how the governance mechanism
will even work across Gaza. Who is even
involved in that, Jeremy?
>> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in
the 20point plan, there are various
aspirational things and there is they've
said that here's the structure. There'll
be this council of peace on the top. Uh
Donald Trump will be the chair. Uh Tony
Blair's going to be involved as well.
um and then there's going to be some
kind of technocratic institution and
there will be some kind of international
force. It's very vague. There have to be
a lot of very um hard details worked out
and and that's the tough thing. Uh and
there things have to happen too like a
UN security council resolution to
authorize the presence of these foreign
troops there. I don't think that um Arab
or Muslim countries are going to really
want to get involved in something that
legally would be uh an illegal operation
lacking that kind of legitimacy that you
get from a security council resolution.
I think they could get the resolution,
but it takes time and with the
difficulties in Gaza and the complexity
of things, maybe they don't have
indefinite amounts of time. And on that
point, of course, aid getting in is
absolutely critical in that first stage
uh given the the famine, given the
humanitarian uh issues there, the acute
malnutrition. But what about the
rebuilding? Because we see the absolute
devastation across Gaza. Is there even
any idea of who will be undertaking that
the contracts that potentially will be
implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt?
We're still not even clear on that, are
we, Jeremy?
No, that's a long way off. That's a long
way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
apart from anything else. I think that
that will have to wait quite a while
because first of all what they need to
do is to get some stability for more
than two million people almost all of
whom have been displaced on multiple
occasions who it was already with the
entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny
piece of land was already one of the
most densely populated places in the
world and now more than 2 million people
have been pushed into a fraction of it
by the IDF by the Israeli military.
country. So, question mark, how to what
extent will they be allowed to go back
to where they came from? What about what
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
seems to want to stay in that particular
area. There's pressure inside the
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
think that's going to be happening.
Certainly not as yet. And they're very
disappointed that it's not. But it's not
off the agenda. So there are lots of
things in the future in the immediate
future that we don't know about and the
challenge is going to be to try and deal
with some of these ambiguities and
uncertainties and come out with a
tangible diplomatic agreement which you
know Trump is not a details man. He's
been a bulldozer pushing this through.
Getting to the detail will take a
sustained diplomatic effort and
agreements. It's not something that
necessarily can be imposed in the same
way that he actually said with, you
know, after the 9th of September attacks
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
Doha by the Israelis. That's that
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
hand massively. And the consequences
that he's dealing with now is that Trump
has gone in there because attacking
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got
in there and he's grabbed him by the
scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is
going to the table and you're going to
stay there until there is a deal based
on my 20 points." Now, that has
happened, but what happens next? The
detailed stuff very difficult to achieve.
achieve.
>> Jeremy Bowen there, our international
editor, just outlining the the amount of
work that still needs to be done. And
when we had that conversation, it was a
few hours ago. Jeremy was just
emphasizing that the ceasefire hadn't
been implemented. And that kind of gives
you an idea of the level of confusion
and the nuance and the vagueness of this
plan because our understanding had been
that once the Israeli cabinet had
ratified the plan, then the ceasefire
would come into force. And yet that
happened last night. Uh we heard the
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu just after um midnight BST. So
uh 2:00 in the morning local time
describing it as a momentous
development. The confirmation coming
through that both that the Israel and
Hamas had agreed that ceasefire and
hostage release deal uh after the
Israeli cabinet had ratified and voted
through that deal. And yet overnight we
still and into the early hours of this
morning we still saw sporadic air
strikes into Gaza. Now we know that the
IDF have said that that ceasefire is now
implemented. We're now an hour and a
half into it. So it seems to be holding
and that's why we are now seeing
thousands of people make their way along
this coastal path along this what was
once a road in Gaza all going to the
north where huge swaves of Gaza has been
reduced to rubble and yet they still
want to return to the places where their
homes once stood.
So that confusion around the timing of
the ceasefire, we now know that it is
now implemented and it is now holding.
Uh we also know that Israeli troops have
moved to the agreed line which means
that they are still occupying Gaza.
They're still within 53% of the Gaza
Strip, but they've moved back somewhat
now. And we also know that US the US has
moved around 200 troops to Israel and
that's in order to help coordinate this
whole operation. They themselves the US
troops will not be entering into Gaza
itself. It's the aid organizations that
are organizing and will be moving aid in.
in.
Aid has been approved to go into Gaza.
It's desperately needed. Uh the UN Enra
was saying they've got 172,000
tons of aid ready to get into Gaza. Aid
that will sustain Gaza, the whole of
Gaza for the next 3 months. It's not
just food, but also medical supplies,
also tents, but we don't yet know if
that aid is already going through. So, a
lot of unknown still, but that aid
desperately needed to get into Gaza. And
of course, the other aspect of this
ceasefire deal, this initial part of the
overall peace plan that Donald Trump has
been instrumental in getting over the
line is the release of the hostages. We
know that Hamas has time to gather the
hostages to get them to the aid
organizations so that they will be then
finally returned to their loved ones.
And that's the living and the remains of
the deceased of whose whereabouts amass
know about. But this when that will
happen and where that will happen is
still unclear. So much is still unknown.
And that's not even talking about the
next stages of what happens with the
governance of Gaza and the rebuilding of
Gaza. Now a little earlier on my
colleague from radio 4 Amal Rajan was
able to speak to the UN humanitarian
chief Tom Fletcher and he began by
asking him what Tom Fletcher was hearing
from his colleagues on the ground in
Gaza itself.
>> I'm in very close touch with our teams
inside Gaza but also with survivors in
Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza
as well. They have long waited and hoped
for this moment and we've worked hard to
get here. It must not be a full storm.
We need to ensure that President Trump's
plan isn't blocked by hardliners on
either side. We're hearing there have
been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy
Bowen was reporting that about an hour
ago as well. Today is crucial. We need
the guns to go silent and we need this
ceasefire to be implemented.
>> And as far as you understand, Tom, who
is now responsible for aid in Gaza?
So, the UN has a plan. There's been
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
thousands killed, including over 18,000
children. That's a child killed on
average every hour for 2 years. And this
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
real breakthrough will be when the
hostages are home, when children are
fed, when they can sleep without terror
under a roof, when they're not bombed
and maimed, when they can be operated on
with anesthetics, when they can go back
to school, when families are reunited
again. And so, we will deliver that
plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get
that aid in to save lives at huge, huge
scale. We have fought and beaten famines
before and we will do it again this time.
time.
>> Very, very keen to talk to you about the
specifics of that plan in just a moment,
but I've got one other practical
question if I may before we get there,
which is how confident are you that the
restrictions previously placed on aid
deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries have been hijacked or
vandalized that those restrictions will
now be lifted?
So that's the big question for the
coming hours and days. And obviously
we're in very close touch with the
Israeli authorities uh in country to
make sure that those impediments, those
obstacles are now removed. We need all
the crossings open. We need safe routes
for our convoys. We need our people
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
have been killed in the last two years.
We need the removal of red tape and
physical barriers. We need the power
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
our water stations.
It's a massive massive job ahead. We
need access for our NGO colleagues and
partners as well. And as you say, we
need the international media to get back
in and tell the world what is happening
and hold us to account for saving lives.
>> Well, let's go through some of your
plans for the coming uh weeks and
months. Then let's do this in stages if
we can. First of all, we'll get to uh
the health system which has been
decimated and water and sanitation. But
first of all, just on food, uh I think
your understanding if I'm correct me if
I'm wrong, but that there is now uh
significant famine and acute
malnutrition across the 2.1 million
people of Gaza. What are your plans for
increasing food deliveries immediately?
>> So that's objective number one. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get hundreds of truckloads
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
food and generosity and aid and help
right now. We need to get food to 2
million people across the strip in every
part of Gaza, north and south. And we
have those supplies prepositioned. We've
got 172,000 metric tons of food,
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
the crossings. The trucks are ready to
roll. And we'll use our community
networks, our expertise, our experience
to get that food where it is most
needed. What are your plans when it
comes to the health system?
>> It's a massive massive challenge. I I
saw for myself when I visited in in
January the scale of destruction of the
hospitals and of the medical sector and
of course it's got even worse uh since
then. So we've got to rebuild those
hospitals. We've got to get the
essential anesthetics in painkillers in.
We've got to ensure that full medical
supplies are flowing, but also medical
expertise because many of those working
nurses and doctors in that sector have
also been killed. It's a massive,
massive task ahead that has to run
alongside that effort to feed everyone
in Gaza.
>> And presumably one of the most urgent
tasks concerns water and sanitation.
>> We need to get water to 1.4 million
people as part of this plan. We also
need to help people prepare for the
winter ahead. It's getting much colder
already. And so we're looking to get
thousands of tents into Gaza in the
coming days and weeks to give them that
shelter, but also to give them the means
to start to go back and begin to rebuild
their lives. We also want to get the
kids back to school. So we have a plan
to get 700,000 school age kids back into
temporary classrooms at least and
supplied with the the books and the the
pens and pencils to begin studying
again. To what extent can you just
explain your the principles you apply to
uh the extent to which Tom you will work
with Hamas who remain in place who've
not been completely uh disarmed to get
that delivery to get those health
services to get the water and sanitation
through. What's your principled position
in terms of what you'll do with a group
which Israel says still needs to be
disarmed urgently. So our major priority
is to get that aid to civilians where
it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as
everywhere, we have to work in a
neutral, impartial, independent,
principled way. Now, everywhere we work,
and you know, I've been on the phone
today to colleagues in Sudan who are
getting past armed groups in Sudan. We
always have to negotiate access with
whoever is on the ground, but we
shouldn't have to ask to get to
civilians. will work with everyone we
need to work with to get past the
blockages, whether those are on the
border or whether those are the armed
groups inside Gaza and reach the
communities, the the moms and dads and
kids, the families who need this support
right now and can't wait.
>> This is obviously an extremely uh
precarious uh fast changing situation.
We're very grateful for your time
speaking to us. Tom, what's your biggest
concern about what could go wrong in the
coming days?
>> So, so many things can go wrong. You
know, the devil's in the detail of this.
I I think President Trump deserves real
credit for having got us to this point
and having set up this framework for a
ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we
have to get the details right. We've got
to move on from this vicious cycle of of
cruelty and terror and revenge and
complicity, indifference and and
inhumity. And then we have to rebuild
Gaza and beyond that somehow start to
rebuild trust and hope between Israelis
and Palestinians. And that's going to be
a really really long hard process. We've
got to rebuild confidence in
international law that's been so
corroded by this war. We've got to have
patience and we've got to have massive
generosity in the time ahead. And I hope
that people who've been moved by what
they've seen in Gaza will now be moved
to be generous. We're only 25% funded on
our appeal. So please, you know, pick up
the phone, get online, visit crisisreief.un.org,
crisisreief.un.org,
or call your MP and let's flood Gaza
with aid.
>> So Tom Fletcher there, the UN
humanitarian chief outlining the
enormous job it will be to to bring some
kind of normality back to Gaza given the
level of destruction after 2 years of uh
air strikes of bombardment.
uh as we continue to monitor
Palestinians making their way to the
north of the country, some parts of
which the worst
destructed uh moving back to what is
left of their homes, most of which are
in rubble. So a massive massive job, but
that initial phase critical in
having the air strikes stop and being
able to bring in the bring out the
Israeli hostages who have been held in
captivity for these past 2 years. Now,
we heard Israel's leader Benjamin
Netanyahu uh just confirm a little bit
earlier on that 20 hostages remain alive
in Gaza. Sadly, 28 are deceased. So the
hope is that those 20 hostages will be
released now that this first phase of
the ceasefire part of the overall peace
plan looks like is it's it's holding
looks like it's being implemented. Uh
Hamas has now uh 72 hours in which to
release those hostages who are still alive
alive
and bring the remains of the deceased to
a place of safety where they can then be
brought out of Gaza and brought back to
their loved ones. The understanding is
there are a number of the remains of the
deceased where Hamas is still yet to to
find the locations of which it's feared
that some remain underneath the rubble
in the buildings destroyed in Gaza.
But when specifically that's going to
happen, we still don't know because as I
keep reiterating, there is still so much
vagueness in this plan. There is still
so much that needs to be really ironed
out. But the understanding is that Hamas
has 72 hours in which the hostages have
to be released. And then Benjamin
Netanyahu saying that he hopes that
Israel can then go on to mark a day of
joy from nightfall on Monday if the
hostages return. So many ifs. There are
still so many ifs. But as we creep up to
the second hour of this ceasefire,
this first phase seems to be holding.
Now my colleague Lee Ducet who is in the
region, she was able to speak to Yehuda
Cohen. Yehuda is the father of Nimrod
Cohen and Nimrod was taken hostage by
Hamas after the October the 7th attacks.
Is still being held in Gaza.
is hopeful Yehuda that Nimrod will be
released within this 72-hour window. He
explained to Le just how he felt about
the efforts to bring his son to bring
Nimrod home.
>> It's going to take a few days. As you
said, ceasefire going to start 12:00
local time. So, we're counting 72 hours,
3 days. And we know Hamas will uh push
the limit. let us uh stall another few
days. But feelings are we are getting
finally to the end. Getting finally to
the end. Uh yeah, thanks to President
Donald Trump. He did it for some other
reason, but he did it at last, forcing
the to uh take the plan, go to a
ceasefire and release the Israelis, not
the American, the Israeli hostages,
Israeli soldiers like my son. So we're
looking forward mixed feelings along
with happiness is uh the moment we will
meet our son Nimrod in what condition
physically mentally psychologic
condition we will meet him what needs to
be done to uh we had a bait him it's
going to take time and of course uh
looking beyond beyond beyond our family
looking at our country there's a lot to
do to
fix our country. Got to start with this
person called Natao being dragged out of
any power on uh Israel uh government or
any decision. He's a danger to Israel.
Well, it's not just a warning, it's a
fact. Uh he had the one of the biggest
contribution to the event of the 7th of
October. This is the person and yeah I'm
concentrating on it not on but we have
to uh understand the source of the
problem. He is the one who made Hamas
get the capabilities of launching this
heinous attack on the 7th of October. He
was the one that used this attack to
prolong his position as a prime
minister, conducting an endless war,
sacrificing Israeli soldiers,
sacrificing hostages who who he is the
one responsible for them being taken. At
least 42 hostages were murdered during
captivity because of his uh uh position
sustaining his position games.
So we have to remember that and we have
to make sure this will never happen again.
again. >> Yeah.
>> Yeah.
>> And as you know Yehuda he he constantly
said that he had two war aims. One was
to destroy Hamas. The second was to
bring the hostages home. He kept saying
and for a while President Trump agreed
with him that military pressure would
work. But do you think without this huge
intervention by President Trump uh this
this day that you're now hope that
you're now just waiting for would never
have happened?
>> Yeah. Absolutely. Yes. Because first of
all regarding Nataniel's announcement
and I always said that before he opened
his mouth is lying. Okay. His target was his
his
securing his position as a prime
minister, escaping his criminal trial
he's on here in Israel. That's his only
purpose. And I'm saying it as one who
looked him in the eye and saw the lies
behind his eyes. I was meeting him not
one one by one, but I was meeting him
several time. last time was about two
and a half months ago when he was in
Washington in a reception in the Blair
House promising us that the first thing
we'll do after the partial deal which
never came through. We will talk about
releasing all the rest of the hostages.
Okay? Sitting in front of you and lying
brute force. This is Netanyahu regarding
Trump. And of course, I can't say any
bad word about Trump right now because
he forced Netanyahu to go for the deal.
But we know that that Trump was working
from his own interest right now. You
know, you you you are going to get give
the report of in one hour there going to
be a decision who will get the Nobel
Peace Prize and he's looking for that.
It's not a a coincidence that everything
is closing up towards the 10th of
September. in that uh in that angle. We
have to remember the pressure on Trump
from Arab countries especially after the
stupid attack on DHA Netanyahu
conducted. We have to remember uh the
European declaration including the UK
including Australia, Canada, France etc.
regarding recognition of Palestinian
state. This is a full collaboration with
modern Arab countries that kind of
closed everything that Trump has to
decide if he's uh only supporting
Netanyahu not Israel only supporting
Netanyahu and going against the rest of
the world and even uh you know inside US
public opinion even the MAGA people the
clear Trump supporters were starting
losing patient of how Netanyahu is kind
>> That was the voice of Yehuda Cohen, his
son Nimrod. Nimod Cohen, who has been
held by Hamas in Gaza since October the
7th, understandably upset, throwing
accusations at Benjamin Netanyahu,
saying that this military offensive
against Gaza, against Hamas was purely
to keep Benjamin Netanyahu in power.
It's an accusation we do hear a lot.
It's an accusation that of course
Benjamin Netanyahu would dispute,
but it's understandable that Yehuda Cohen
Cohen
is upset
and is awaiting the release of his son
two years on since he was taken hostage
Now,
within the past 5 minutes or so,
Benjamin Netanyahu has said he's
confirmed that 20 hostages remain alive
in Gaza, 48
are deceased,
deal
that Donald Trump has been very forceful
with, really pushed for the first part,
the ceasefire, the release of the
hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli
troops to an agreed position. Still
within Gaza, still occupying just over
half of the strip, but moving back so
that Hamas can now bring the hostages out.
out.
In return,
1,700 Palestinians will be released,
those held in Israeli prisons. So
incredibly complicated,
lot of moving parts, but as we see so
far, this first part, we're into just
coming up to full two hours of this
ceasefire. It is holding and you've got
tens of thousands of people making the
long journey back to what remains of
their homes. Now we know that when this
deal was initially announced by Donald
Trump, there was a welcome risception
from the international community
including the UK government and a little
bit earlier the UK foreign secretary
Iette Cooper spoke to my colleague on
>> Well we're hoping that this will be in
place imminently. the uh there were
discussions about the the timing. Our
view is that it should be brought in
straight away. We we just need a
desperately need the end complete end to
all of the fighting alongside the
release of hostages and the restoration
of desperately needed aid. We're already
working. There's already work underway
to get start getting the aid back in
place. So we need all of the components
of this ceasefire agreement, this first
phase of the US peace initiative have to
be in place as rapidly as possible,
implemented as swiftly as possible.
We've had 2 years of unimaginable
suffering and it's extremely important
that this is a moment of peace, not just
a moment of hope.
>> What do you understand of the deal? Um
just in terms of of the reporting, we
understand that one report said that
once the deal had been signed um or the
peace plan was in place, the ceasefire
plan was in place um within 24 hours
this um ceasefire would take come into
force. Another is saying that it it
would immediately come into force. Are
you any clearer as to what exactly is
Well, we were expecting it to come in
within 24 hours, but our view continues
to be we want it in place immediately,
as rapidly as possible, and we hope that
it will be brought in as as soon as is
possible. But I think you could see, I
mean, we've seen some of the images both
from the streets of Israel and the
streets of Gaza, the the desperate need
to celebrate that people have after such
a long time of suffering where you've
got the pain of hostage families, but
also the pain of of families across Gaza
who have uh endured the humanitarian
crisis for all of this time. We have to
have an end to this. This provides a
huge moment to be able to do so. It's a
tribute not just to the US leadership
but also to Qatar, Turkey, Egypt who've
been in the negotiations and all of the
countries including the UK have been
working to support this and also to make
sure it can be implemented going forward
and that's why I'm in Paris today.
>> Indeed, it leads very nicely into what
you are doing in Paris. What involvement
is are European countries, the UK going
to have with this um ceasefire agreement?
Well, the UK has been one of very many
countries that's been contributing to
this peace process. We've been putting
forward proposals over the last few
months. We've been involved in many of
the discussions to support President
Trump's initiative and we will continue
to do so. So, the discussions we had
with last night were also with other
countries like Jordan and Egypt on what
we need to do now to get the
humanitarian aid in as fast as possible.
We need UN agencies but also other uh
agencies that have experience on the
ground to be able to get that aid
rapidly in place. We talked to about the
need to restore medical uh facilities,
hospital services, basic health services
uh in Gaza as well. and we talked about
the longerterm issues around the
reconstruction of Gaza and how countries
can work together uh how we can raise
the finance to invest in Gaza's
reconstruction for the future. So a
range of different things we need all
countries to pull together. I have a
real sense at the moment and I've had
this for some time that there is a sense
of the whole world wanting to come
together to support a just and lasting
peace in the Middle East. And that means
security for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
alike.
>> What um involvement do you think
Benjamin Netanyahu is willing to accept
from European countries? In an interview
about 5 days ago on Euro News, um he
said Europe has basically caved into
Palestinian terrorism and radical
Islamist uh minorities. Europe has
essentially become irrelevant in
ceasefire plans because this is phase
There will of course there are two
different phases as part of the 20point
plan that uh President Trump published
and as I said a lot of countries
including the UK have contributed to
that process uh and to the plan to the
proposals that are included and we will
also continue to work together. of
course that this is going to involve
that partnership and of course this is
going to involve uh different decisions
along the way and of course look we have
had many disagreements with the um
Israeli prime minister on exactly the
points that you were referring to. We we
disagree on that. But the point now is
that we need countries coming together
to make peace a reality and to actually
make it happen because this is still a
fragile process, but it's one that there
is huge momentum behind and huge
commitment to. So we have to make it work.
work.
>> Do you believe that once Israel receives
the hostages, it will stick to the ceasefire?
>> Well, there's huge commitment from all
sides to make sure that that happens.
That's what you've heard from the US,
their commitment to making sure that
this agreement is maintained. We saw the
uh Israeli cabinet has accepted the uh
the full details of the first phase of
the agreement and they have also signed
up to President Trump's 20point plan.
So, it's immensely important that of
course they remain committed to that.
It's also immensely important, urgently
that Hamas release the hostages and that
there is no role for Hamas in the future
governance of Gaza or Palestine. We've
made clear that and it's also part of
President Trump's 20point plan. So,
look, a lot of work still to do, but
huge commitment to making that happen.
>> Has there been um any discussion of
European or British troops um military
That's not our plan. There's no plans to
do that. But there is an immediate
proposal for the US to lead what is
effectively like a monitoring process to
make sure that uh this has with hostage
release and also uh making sure that
this getting the the aid in place. But
they have also made very clear that they
expect the the troops on the ground to
be provided by neighboring states. And
that is something that we do expect to
happen. And there are those
international discussions about some of
those neighboring countries and others
contributing to this international uh
security force, this stabilization force
to make sure that peace can be implemented.
implemented.
>> The UK will be contributing of course in
different ways. One of the things that
we'll be doing is working closely uh
with Egypt. For example, even next week
we have meetings on how we can get
private finance to go into Gaza to help
invest in the future.
>> Iette Cooper there, the UK foreign
secretary speaking to my colleague Naga
Manetti and that was much earlier on in
the day where there was still a little
bit of confusion as to when the
ceasefire would be
implemented. So the idea was the
understanding initially was as we heard
uh Miss Cooper there say that it would
be pretty much soon after the Israeli
cabinet ratified the ceasefire deal
itself. But we've only we've learned now
that the IDF have within the past 2
hours implemented that ceasefire
agreement. So we're just creeping up to
that second hour of the ceasefire. So
that's why a little bit earlier on this
morning and throughout the night, we
still saw air strikes from Israel into
Gaza. That has now ceased and that's why
we're seeing this exodus of Palestinians
moving up uh moving north to find what
is left of their homes. So the agreement
has been brought forward which has been
ratified now overnight by the Israeli
cabinet. Well, it calls for that initial
Israeli withdrawal to a temporary border
uh and the release of the hostages, the
Israeli hostages, 20 of whom are still
alive, the return of the remains of the
28 deceased, and the release of roughly 1,700
1,700
the who were detained by the Israel
Defense Force in Gaza after Hamasa's
attack on October the 7th, two years
ago. And also Israel's release of 250
Palestinian prisoners who are serving
life sentences in Israeli jails after
being convicted of killing Israelis.
They will be released either to Gaza or
go to exile in Arab and Muslim
countries. And that's why it has been so
difficult to get this deal over the line
when it comes to the hardliners, the
ultraists within the Israeli cabinet.
But it was passed through and we're
seeing those initial stages, the
ceasefire deal, the hostage release, the
release of Palestinian prisoners
detained since October the 7th, and the
withdrawal of Israeli. I have to stress
because they're not fully withdrawing
from Gaza. They will be moving back to
occupy just over half of the Gaza Strip
and then in the next stages they will be
withdrawing further along. Hamas has 72
hours in which to release the Israeli hostages
hostages
and we don't know the details of when
exactly that will happen or where. So
are still an awful amount of unknowns,
but for the moment the ceasefire at
You join us in Hostages Square in uh Tel
Aviv where the anticipation is growing
after a ceasefire in Gaza came into
force around 2 hours ago uh after the
Israeli army pulled back to the approved
lines that were part of the deal
approved by the uh cabinet in Israel in
the early hours of this morning. As
we've been saying, as part of that plan,
uh the all of the remaining Israeli
hostages, alive and dead, are to be
returned home to Israel to their
families. Although the the Hamas has
said that it may not be able to retrieve
all of the remains given that some may
be buried under the mounds of rubble in
the battlefields of Gaza. Well, Israeli
troops have now positioned themselves
along an updated line in Gaza, uh, which
le still leaves them in control of 53%
of the territory. Now, in the past hour,
the prime minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu,
Netanyahu,
um, has been speaking. He made a public
address, the first since his government
approved uh, this ceasefire deal on
Thursday evening. and uh he stressed uh
that he expected in the second phase for
Hamas to give up its guns in Gaza and
for the the strip to be demilitarized
and repeated what he and President Trump
have have said repeatedly. Either they
can do this the easy way through
negotiations or the hard way through
more military actions. Well, let's join
our Gaza correspondent who's now in
Istanbul, Rushi Abu Alu. Rushi, uh what
are the se what are the reports from the
>> Yes. For the last an hour and a half, we
haven't heard any report about Israeli
air strike as thousands of people
started to walk back into Gaza City
since the Israeli army withdrawn its
forces only from the beach road. Well,
Salahadin road the main one is still
closed and people are not allowed to
leave it. It depends of how much money
the people have. they can hire either a
car or a donkey cart or a bigger backup
car. But the majority of the people say
that they are they don't have 4,000
shekel which is about 900 pound to pay
for this trip. So they walk about 20
kilometers. I speaking to a teacher this
morning. He was waiting there and now
he's walking in the middle of the of the
crowd. He said that it is very very very
difficult journey without water. tired,
grim faces and they are working to after
the news from Gaza. They received this
morning that the destruction is
something that Gazan never seen before.
Especially the main three neighborhood,
the northern neighborhood of Shehwan,
Sabra and Zetun area, about 90% of the
>> And under the new withdrawal plan for
Israeli forces, those those lines
protect quite a few Palestinians from
Well, 900,000 Palestinians will not be
allowed to go back to their
neighborhoods during the first phase of
the ceasefire which no one know for how
long it will last. So the entire city of
Rafa all of the population about 200,000
people are staying in al- moasi and they
will continue to stay there because no
one is allowed to go back to Rafa and
Bah the two main places in northern Gaza
are also out of control
still under Israeli control no one will
be allowed about a quarter of Gaza city west eastern neighborhoods half ofun and
west eastern neighborhoods half ofun and 10% of D balah Uh so we are talking
10% of D balah Uh so we are talking about 9,000 people in total are not
about 9,000 people in total are not going to be allowed to go back to their
going to be allowed to go back to their homes.
>> Abu Alu, thank you so much uh for that update. Well, also as part of this plan,
update. Well, also as part of this plan, much more humanitarian aid is expected
much more humanitarian aid is expected to flow into Gaza. We understand that in
to flow into Gaza. We understand that in the first few days it should be 400
the first few days it should be 400 trucks a day. This is a moment that the
trucks a day. This is a moment that the United Nations has been working for. Tom
United Nations has been working for. Tom Fletcher is the UN's humanitarian chief.
Fletcher is the UN's humanitarian chief. He's been speaking to my colleague Amal
He's been speaking to my colleague Amal Rajan about what preparations are in
Rajan about what preparations are in place.
place. >> So the UN has a plan. There's been
>> So the UN has a plan. There's been unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of thousands killed including over 18,000
thousands killed including over 18,000 children. That's a child killed on
children. That's a child killed on average every hour for 2 years. And this
average every hour for 2 years. And this agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the real breakthrough will be when the
real breakthrough will be when the hostages are home. When children are
hostages are home. When children are fed. When they can sleep without terror
fed. When they can sleep without terror under a roof. When they're not bombed
under a roof. When they're not bombed and maimed. When they can be operated on
and maimed. When they can be operated on with anesthetics. when they can go back
with anesthetics. when they can go back to school, when families are reunited
to school, when families are reunited again. And so, we will deliver that
again. And so, we will deliver that plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get
plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid in to save lives at huge, huge
that aid in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We have fought and beaten famines
scale. We have fought and beaten famines before, and we will do it again this
before, and we will do it again this time. How confident are you that the
time. How confident are you that the restrictions previously placed on aid
restrictions previously placed on aid deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries by Israel who say that those deliveries have been hijacked or
deliveries have been hijacked or vandalized, that those restrictions will
vandalized, that those restrictions will now be lifted?
now be lifted? So that's the big question for the
So that's the big question for the coming hours and days. And obviously
coming hours and days. And obviously we're in very close touch with the
we're in very close touch with the Israeli authorities uh in country to
Israeli authorities uh in country to make sure that those impediments, those
make sure that those impediments, those obstacles are now removed. We need all
obstacles are now removed. We need all the crossings open. We need safe routes
the crossings open. We need safe routes for our convoys. We need our people
for our convoys. We need our people protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues have been killed in the last two years.
have been killed in the last two years. We need the removal of red tape and
We need the removal of red tape and physical barriers. We need the power
physical barriers. We need the power back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals, our water stations.
our water stations. It's a massive massive job ahead. We
It's a massive massive job ahead. We need access for our NGO colleagues and
need access for our NGO colleagues and partners as well. And as you say, we
partners as well. And as you say, we need the international media to get back
need the international media to get back in and tell the world what is happening
in and tell the world what is happening and hold us to account for saving lives.
and hold us to account for saving lives. >> What are your plans for increasing food
>> What are your plans for increasing food deliveries immediately?
deliveries immediately? >> So that's objective number one. We've
>> So that's objective number one. We've got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've got to get hundreds of truckloads
got to get hundreds of truckloads convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with food and generosity and aid and help
food and generosity and aid and help right now. We need to get food to 2
right now. We need to get food to 2 million people across the strip in every
million people across the strip in every part of Gaza, north and south. And we
part of Gaza, north and south. And we have those supplies prepositioned. We've
have those supplies prepositioned. We've got 172,000 metric tons of food,
got 172,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at the crossings. The trucks are ready to
the crossings. The trucks are ready to roll. and we'll use our community
roll. and we'll use our community networks, our expertise, our experience
networks, our expertise, our experience to get that food where it is most
to get that food where it is most needed.
needed. >> That was Tom Fletcher there speaking a
>> That was Tom Fletcher there speaking a little bit earlier. The UN under
little bit earlier. The UN under secretary general for humanitarian
secretary general for humanitarian affairs. Uh my colleague Lee Ducet is in
affairs. Uh my colleague Lee Ducet is in Tel Aviv and Lee, I just wanted to ask
Tel Aviv and Lee, I just wanted to ask you um a very human question really in
you um a very human question really in that the people that you are speaking
that the people that you are speaking to, how would you describe their mood?
to, how would you describe their mood? What are they saying to you?
What are they saying to you? Oh, there's We've been speaking to
Oh, there's We've been speaking to people here in Hostages Square ever
people here in Hostages Square ever since the news came through that there
since the news came through that there was a deal. It did just to be approved
was a deal. It did just to be approved as it was uh last night. And the mood in
as it was uh last night. And the mood in this square just changed that suddenly
this square just changed that suddenly there was this hope, this cautious hope.
there was this hope, this cautious hope. But people still said that they there
But people still said that they there was still some disbelief. They've been
was still some disbelief. They've been let down so many times before. They know
let down so many times before. They know how deals like this can unravel, even
how deals like this can unravel, even though this one seems to be more solid
though this one seems to be more solid than efforts before. So, until their
than efforts before. So, until their loved ones are actually back in their
loved ones are actually back in their arms out of Gaza, out of captivity,
arms out of Gaza, out of captivity, they're not going to really breathe
they're not going to really breathe easily. But there's a more of a
easily. But there's a more of a lightness in this square. Of course, the
lightness in this square. Of course, the square, as we've often said, has become
square, as we've often said, has become a gathering place for the families of
a gathering place for the families of the hostages, those who are still in
the hostages, those who are still in captivity, those who've returned, their
captivity, those who've returned, their friends, and the growing number of
friends, and the growing number of supporters across Israel. We've just
supporters across Israel. We've just we've seen the the the opinion polls go
we've seen the the the opinion polls go up and up and up of the percentage of
up and up and up of the percentage of Israelis who have been saying uh month,
Israelis who have been saying uh month, it's time for the war to end. It's time
it's time for the war to end. It's time to bring Israeli hostages home. event
to bring Israeli hostages home. event all around the square there's the
all around the square there's the photographs of some of the 250 hostages
photographs of some of the 250 hostages who were taken in those horrific events
who were taken in those horrific events of October the 7th and there's one which
of October the 7th and there's one which has the last 48 20 still alive it's
has the last 48 20 still alive it's believed 28 they didn't survive their
believed 28 they didn't survive their captivity or they were uh killed on
captivity or they were uh killed on October uh the 7th and Hamas has been
October uh the 7th and Hamas has been saying they're not sure they can
saying they're not sure they can retrieve all of the remains but they
retrieve all of the remains but they certainly are trying to to find them but
certainly are trying to to find them but in the the rubble of of this, you know,
in the the rubble of of this, you know, rubble strewn streets of of the Gaza
rubble strewn streets of of the Gaza Strip. And we we heard um just a short
Strip. And we we heard um just a short time ago from Benjamin Netanyahu um who
time ago from Benjamin Netanyahu um who said that they are going to act now to
said that they are going to act now to locate all the kidnapped and fallen as
locate all the kidnapped and fallen as soon as possible in terms of the
soon as possible in terms of the hostages.
>> Yes. Um, they are going to do they're going to do their best. Prime Minister
going to do their best. Prime Minister Netanyahu is under huge pressure from
Netanyahu is under huge pressure from the right-wing members of his government
the right-wing members of his government who don't didn't want this deal to go
who don't didn't want this deal to go ahead. They voted against it. They're
ahead. They voted against it. They're warning they'll bring down his
warning they'll bring down his government. They didn't want some of the
government. They didn't want some of the prisoners released, those who are
prisoners released, those who are serving multiple uh life sentences. And
serving multiple uh life sentences. And so, there's a lot of the deal uh that
so, there's a lot of the deal uh that they're not happy with. But, of course,
they're not happy with. But, of course, if they they they do welcome the return
if they they they do welcome the return of the hostages. that is uh the nation
of the hostages. that is uh the nation as one has said they want the hostages
as one has said they want the hostages uh to come home and in that statement
uh to come home and in that statement prime minister Netanyahu warned Hamas
prime minister Netanyahu warned Hamas you know what Hamas is going to be
you know what Hamas is going to be expected to do going forward which is to
expected to do going forward which is to to disarm some of them to go into exile
to disarm some of them to go into exile if Israel has its way and warning that
if Israel has its way and warning that they'll do it either the easy way or the
they'll do it either the easy way or the hard way. So the pressure will continue
hard way. So the pressure will continue on this process and
on this process and >> and how much faith is there that
>> and how much faith is there that ultimately there will be enough US
ultimately there will be enough US commitment to see through the plan um
commitment to see through the plan um and ultimately that Hamas will disarm.
>> Well, it's a big question. The there is a monitoring commission uh 200 uh US
a monitoring commission uh 200 uh US troops are going to join it. There will
troops are going to join it. There will be members from the Arab states who have
be members from the Arab states who have played such a key role in moving this
played such a key role in moving this process forward including Egypt and
process forward including Egypt and Qatar who've been the main mediators uh
Qatar who've been the main mediators uh the UAE as well Saudi Arabia all of
the UAE as well Saudi Arabia all of these countries coming together which
these countries coming together which has been behind this this new momentum
has been behind this this new momentum and unprecedented momentum which has
and unprecedented momentum which has resulted in the deal we're seeing today
resulted in the deal we're seeing today the the ceasefire which has come into
the the ceasefire which has come into place the third ceasefire since the war
place the third ceasefire since the war began the last one uh broke down in
began the last one uh broke down in March when Israel pulled out of it
March when Israel pulled out of it saying that there were new terms for a
saying that there were new terms for a ceasefire and this has taken months and
ceasefire and this has taken months and months of protracted negotiations and it
months of protracted negotiations and it has been a month of deepening agony for
has been a month of deepening agony for the families and friends of the hostages
the families and friends of the hostages for the people in the Gaza Strip and
for the people in the Gaza Strip and they're daring to hope that this is the
they're daring to hope that this is the start of a chapter which will move them
start of a chapter which will move them forward and not back and we are seeing
forward and not back and we are seeing the the pictures both from hostage
the the pictures both from hostage square as you speak but also from within
square as you speak but also from within Gaza and the huge flow of people as uh
Gaza and the huge flow of people as uh people start to move. Um again, what are
people start to move. Um again, what are you hearing from those within Gaza?
you hearing from those within Gaza? Obviously, it's very difficult to to get
Obviously, it's very difficult to to get lines out from there, but again, the
lines out from there, but again, the hopes of so many will now be that they
hopes of so many will now be that they can get food, that they can get shelter,
can get food, that they can get shelter, that they can get security and peace.
>> Yes, we heard just from Tom Fletcher, the UN's humanitarian chief. It's the
the UN's humanitarian chief. It's the message that we hear from all of the
message that we hear from all of the agencies who've been struggling to work
agencies who've been struggling to work in the conditions of the Gaza Strip,
in the conditions of the Gaza Strip, including the restrictions placed by the
including the restrictions placed by the Israeli authorities. They're now hoping
Israeli authorities. They're now hoping that they will be able to operate more
that they will be able to operate more freely to get those initially. Uh some
freely to get those initially. Uh some of the 400 trucks in some of those
of the 400 trucks in some of those trucks will be humanitarian aid. Some
trucks will be humanitarian aid. Some will be commercial. And I know from
will be commercial. And I know from having visited the rougher crossing on
having visited the rougher crossing on the Egyptian side, there are thousands
the Egyptian side, there are thousands and thousands of lorries backed up with
and thousands of lorries backed up with those essential supplies just waiting to
those essential supplies just waiting to clear Israeli inspection so they can
clear Israeli inspection so they can enter into uh the Gaza Strip. We've also
enter into uh the Gaza Strip. We've also been hearing from Rushi Abu Aloo, our
been hearing from Rushi Abu Aloo, our correspondent who's in touch with people
correspondent who's in touch with people on the ground in Gaza and people who
on the ground in Gaza and people who yesterday were prevented from going
yesterday were prevented from going north along the coastal al-Rashid road,
north along the coastal al-Rashid road, the main Salahudin road is still
the main Salahudin road is still blocked. Now they're setting out today.
blocked. Now they're setting out today. those who still have some money to
those who still have some money to afford anything from a a a proper
afford anything from a a a proper vehicle to a donkey cart. Uh they're
vehicle to a donkey cart. Uh they're making their way uh with those uh means
making their way uh with those uh means of conveyance of most gazins if we've
of conveyance of most gazins if we've seen in those heart-rennding images,
seen in those heart-rennding images, including very old the elderly people
including very old the elderly people who've been weakened uh by months of
who've been weakened uh by months of living with so little food trying to
living with so little food trying to make uh the journey in the baking heat
make uh the journey in the baking heat without food and water along the way.
without food and water along the way. It's a long long journey 20 miles 20 km
It's a long long journey 20 miles 20 km to to the north and of course they're
to to the north and of course they're arriving hoping to see their homes and
arriving hoping to see their homes and finding that almost little is left but
finding that almost little is left but the but the point for them is to go home
the but the point for them is to go home no matter what is still there. Lee
no matter what is still there. Lee Ducet, thanks very much indeed. We'll be
Ducet, thanks very much indeed. We'll be back with you in a few moments. We're
back with you in a few moments. We're going to take a short break around the
going to take a short break around the world and across the UK. This is BBC
world and across the UK. This is BBC News.
You're joining us now in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv here as well in so many
in Tel Aviv here as well in so many places here and across the region
places here and across the region waiting to see this new the first phase
waiting to see this new the first phase of this ceasefire plan to to start
of this ceasefire plan to to start falling into place and most of all the
falling into place and most of all the humanitarian aspect of this new
humanitarian aspect of this new agreement. We can cross to Al-Muasi in
agreement. We can cross to Al-Muasi in southern Gaza Strip uh which has become
southern Gaza Strip uh which has become a humanitarian hub if you can call it
a humanitarian hub if you can call it that a tented city. We can join Tess
that a tented city. We can join Tess Ingram a spokesperson for UNICEF. Tess
Ingram a spokesperson for UNICEF. Tess Ingram, just tell us some of the
Ingram, just tell us some of the conditions now that you're working under
conditions now that you're working under in Al-Muasi.
in Al-Muasi. >> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are
>> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are so many people that have been displaced
so many people that have been displaced here over the last few weeks living in
here over the last few weeks living in really, really difficult conditions.
really, really difficult conditions. Lack of shelter, people under pieces of
Lack of shelter, people under pieces of tarpolan with very little to keep them
tarpolan with very little to keep them warm as winter approaches. Children
warm as winter approaches. Children walking through broken rubble without
walking through broken rubble without shoes, insufficient access to food and
shoes, insufficient access to food and water. And throughout all of that,
water. And throughout all of that, UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But
UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But like it has been throughout this
like it has been throughout this conflict, we've been restricted in what
conflict, we've been restricted in what we can bring in and and what areas we
we can bring in and and what areas we have access to. So we are pleased. We
have access to. So we are pleased. We really welcome this news of the
really welcome this news of the ceasefire and we hope that it will lead
ceasefire and we hope that it will lead to a scaling up of aid to help address
to a scaling up of aid to help address conditions here in Almoasi but across
conditions here in Almoasi but across the Gaza Strip.
the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing, Tess, that people
And are you seeing, Tess, that people are starting to move uh to go back to
are starting to move uh to go back to their homes if indeed they can along the
their homes if indeed they can along the lines permitted by the new Israeli
lines permitted by the new Israeli deployment lines.
deployment lines. There's a lot of excitement but also
There's a lot of excitement but also apprehension about that move around
apprehension about that move around people make wanting to make sure that
people make wanting to make sure that they're going to be safe if they do move
they're going to be safe if they do move but of course already beginning to pack
but of course already beginning to pack up their belongings because as people
up their belongings because as people told me when I was here during the
told me when I was here during the February ceasefire and again now home is
February ceasefire and again now home is home and they want to go back to their
home and they want to go back to their communities and their lands even if it
communities and their lands even if it has been reduced to rubble. But what is
has been reduced to rubble. But what is then critical is that the humanitarian
then critical is that the humanitarian response is there for them, providing
response is there for them, providing them with that shelter, with a tent,
them with that shelter, with a tent, with access to safe drinking water, with
with access to safe drinking water, with those shoes for their children. And
those shoes for their children. And that's going to be our focus in the
that's going to be our focus in the coming days is to follow the thousands
coming days is to follow the thousands of people as they move back to their
of people as they move back to their communities.
And do you have any sense as to how quickly the humanitarian aspect of this
quickly the humanitarian aspect of this new deal is going to come into force?
new deal is going to come into force? You may remember that um in the
You may remember that um in the ceasefire in January, the gates opened
ceasefire in January, the gates opened quite quickly and uh within no time at
quite quickly and uh within no time at all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling
all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling across the border. What's your sense
across the border. What's your sense this time?
this time? >> We're really hoping for the same based
>> We're really hoping for the same based on our understanding of of what has been
on our understanding of of what has been negotiated in this plan and presented by
negotiated in this plan and presented by the mediators. The UN is going to be at
the mediators. The UN is going to be at the heart of this humanitarian response.
the heart of this humanitarian response. And that's what we're being uh that's
And that's what we're being uh that's what we're working around is is to have
what we're working around is is to have the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300
the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300 trucks prepositioned outside of the Gaza
trucks prepositioned outside of the Gaza Strip ready to scale up our response. We
Strip ready to scale up our response. We have had trucks come in yesterday and
have had trucks come in yesterday and today, but we need to see that increase
today, but we need to see that increase as you say happen very quickly. Um
as you say happen very quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the next day we
hopefully tomorrow or the next day we can see that scale up meaningfully
can see that scale up meaningfully because the stakes here are really high.
because the stakes here are really high. We're talking about childrens whose
We're talking about childrens whose immune systems have been shattered.
immune systems have been shattered. Children who have gone years without
Children who have gone years without access to nutritious food. Um and of
access to nutritious food. Um and of course with winter approaching that
course with winter approaching that diseases will spread. Uh so that scaled
diseases will spread. Uh so that scaled up is is incredibly time critical or we
up is is incredibly time critical or we risk seeing continued children dying
risk seeing continued children dying from the humanitarian crisis on the
from the humanitarian crisis on the ground.
ground. >> Yes, of course it will be the immediate
>> Yes, of course it will be the immediate needs as you've been mentioning that
needs as you've been mentioning that have to be met first. But uh I suppose
have to be met first. But uh I suppose if if this calm holds, you perhaps can
if if this calm holds, you perhaps can begin to try to ease the trauma that all
begin to try to ease the trauma that all of the children of Gaza have experienced
of the children of Gaza have experienced and really cannot be cannot start to
and really cannot be cannot start to heal unless the bombing start stops
heal unless the bombing start stops unless that sound of the drone in the
unless that sound of the drone in the air goes away until the fear goes.
air goes away until the fear goes. >> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still
>> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still hear the drones now. for so for children
hear the drones now. for so for children the sound of a ceasefire the sound of
the sound of a ceasefire the sound of peace hasn't come true yet and and we do
peace hasn't come true yet and and we do really need that in order to address the
really need that in order to address the horrors that they've experienced over
horrors that they've experienced over more than two years now and I think it's
more than two years now and I think it's important for us to remember that in why
important for us to remember that in why this ceasefire must be sustained why
this ceasefire must be sustained why it's so critical children have been
it's so critical children have been disappointed before they've had a
disappointed before they've had a ceasefire be broken fall away in front
ceasefire be broken fall away in front of them and then endure more months of
of them and then endure more months of of loss and of of trauma and of fear. So
of loss and of of trauma and of fear. So if that happened again, that would be
if that happened again, that would be devastating for the mental health of
devastating for the mental health of children, all people in the Gaza Strip.
children, all people in the Gaza Strip. We need that peace and we need to be
We need that peace and we need to be able to scale up that mental health
able to scale up that mental health response here for children in Gaza to
response here for children in Gaza to begin to address uh what they have
begin to address uh what they have endured. It's just as important as the
endured. It's just as important as the shelter, the food, and the education
shelter, the food, and the education that we're going to provide to kids
that we're going to provide to kids here.
here. Tess Ingram from UNICEF, we wish you the
Tess Ingram from UNICEF, we wish you the best in your very challenging but so
best in your very challenging but so crucial work. Uh thank you for joining
crucial work. Uh thank you for joining us from Al-Masia. Must be a busy day for
us from Al-Masia. Must be a busy day for you today.
you today. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you. >> Well, let's hear reflections from a
>> Well, let's hear reflections from a resident of Gaza. So, we were hoped to
resident of Gaza. So, we were hoped to join two brothers together who've been
join two brothers together who've been separated by war. But for now, we're
separated by war. But for now, we're going to be joined by Ibrahim Isbeta.
going to be joined by Ibrahim Isbeta. He's a Palestinian who escaped Gaza uh
He's a Palestinian who escaped Gaza uh to get some specialized medical care for
to get some specialized medical care for his daughter. His brother Marwan is
his daughter. His brother Marwan is still in Al-Masi in the same that tented
still in Al-Masi in the same that tented camp where we were just speaking to uh
camp where we were just speaking to uh to Tess in Ingram. Uh Ibram, thank you
to Tess in Ingram. Uh Ibram, thank you very much for joining us here on BBC
very much for joining us here on BBC News.
News. Thank you so much for giving
Thank you so much for giving opportunity.
>> And we were still hoping to get your brother Marwan up on the line as well,
brother Marwan up on the line as well, but you must have been speaking to him,
but you must have been speaking to him, other members of your family. What have
other members of your family. What have they been sharing with you now that the
they been sharing with you now that the ceasefire has at last come into force?
ceasefire has at last come into force? >> Uh to be honest, they are still under
>> Uh to be honest, they are still under the trauma. They couldn't believe we
the trauma. They couldn't believe we have reached to this moment. Uh this
have reached to this moment. Uh this moment it's been delayed for two years.
moment it's been delayed for two years. been waiting this moment for a few
been waiting this moment for a few years. Uh I was my families I was
years. Uh I was my families I was specifically yesterday
under a very uh hard condition. I remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea
remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea city under a heavy fire after midnight
city under a heavy fire after midnight we stay like all night try to follow up
we stay like all night try to follow up with him till he reach to Alasi and they
with him till he reach to Alasi and they stay on the street. So right now we are
stay on the street. So right now we are very happy. Nobody care about what's the
very happy. Nobody care about what's the condition what whatever the
condition what whatever the circumstances but at least right now
circumstances but at least right now they can sleep safely after this uh
they can sleep safely after this uh devastating two years
>> and how hard will it be for your family if this ceasefire will help enormously
if this ceasefire will help enormously but as you know but I don't need to tell
but as you know but I don't need to tell you the level of destruction is also
you the level of destruction is also enormous. is going to continue to be a
enormous. is going to continue to be a huge challenge is it not?
huge challenge is it not? >> Uh it's going to be difficult uh because
>> Uh it's going to be difficult uh because we are specifically from Shaya
we are specifically from Shaya neighborhood. Uh right now since the
neighborhood. Uh right now since the morning they are saying that uh the
morning they are saying that uh the Israeli will not withdraw from uh our
Israeli will not withdraw from uh our neighborhood. So we are happy but at the
neighborhood. So we are happy but at the same time we are devastating about uh
same time we are devastating about uh okay this is a ceasefire but where
okay this is a ceasefire but where what's the future when we can put back
what's the future when we can put back to our land at least because our home
to our land at least because our home was at the beginning at the first phase
was at the beginning at the first phase of the at the first ceasefire it was
of the at the first ceasefire it was partly destroyed right now it's
partly destroyed right now it's completely destroyed uh so like we were
completely destroyed uh so like we were like spoken about when we put back and
like spoken about when we put back and then like uh some people say that our
then like uh some people say that our home is completely destroyed then right
home is completely destroyed then right now the news came that we he will not be
now the news came that we he will not be able to back to our houses. Uh so this
able to back to our houses. Uh so this like uh indeed we are happy it's over
like uh indeed we are happy it's over but still like what's the future? What's
but still like what's the future? What's coming next? We have no idea when we put
coming next? We have no idea when we put back because right now I was spoken with
back because right now I was spoken with him. I was spoke with my sister too when
him. I was spoke with my sister too when you were back they say that we couldn't
you were back they say that we couldn't because they say that the Israel tanks
because they say that the Israel tanks is in our neighborhood and at the at
is in our neighborhood and at the at this stage they will not withdraw from
this stage they will not withdraw from this area but at least they they will be
this area but at least they they will be sleep normal like any other people like
sleep normal like any other people like any other people around the world
any other people around the world without like in which way I'm going to
without like in which way I'm going to die I'm going to stay alive till
die I'm going to stay alive till tomorrow or I'm going to lose someone
tomorrow or I'm going to lose someone else at least now they have this sense
else at least now they have this sense to sleep well like any other people
to sleep well like any other people around the world.
>> And if I may, Ibrahim, I ask about your daughter who was treated for a heart
daughter who was treated for a heart condition in Dublin. How is she?
condition in Dublin. How is she? >> She's fine actually. You know, it's like
>> She's fine actually. You know, it's like a two uh joyful moment for me. I've been
a two uh joyful moment for me. I've been waiting this moment for a long time like
waiting this moment for a long time like after 13 years of going back going and
after 13 years of going back going and back from hospital from different area.
back from hospital from different area. At the beginning uh my daughter was
At the beginning uh my daughter was transferred out Gaza strip to do the
transferred out Gaza strip to do the surgery. She's supposed to do the
surgery. She's supposed to do the surgery in uh January 2023 but because
surgery in uh January 2023 but because of the war we couldn't access to the
of the war we couldn't access to the Jerusalem. So we like after 7 month of
Jerusalem. So we like after 7 month of the war we went to Egypt. I stayed there
the war we went to Egypt. I stayed there for one year tried to do the surgery
for one year tried to do the surgery there but I couldn't. Finally I got the
there but I couldn't. Finally I got the chance to be in Dublin to do the
chance to be in Dublin to do the surgery. Uh last week we did the surgery
surgery. Uh last week we did the surgery and thanks God it succeeded. Right now
and thanks God it succeeded. Right now she's in recovery mood but she's fine.
she's in recovery mood but she's fine. She kind of normal like any other girls.
She kind of normal like any other girls. Now she can go to school. Uh she can use
Now she can go to school. Uh she can use bike. She can walk. Uh and now I have
bike. She can walk. Uh and now I have her
her >> and I'm I'm sorry we're going to have to
>> and I'm I'm sorry we're going to have to bring this to an end but thank you very
bring this to an end but thank you very much uh for joining us with the sounds
much uh for joining us with the sounds of your daughter in the background. And
of your daughter in the background. And thank you very much for joining us as we
thank you very much for joining us as we continue our special coverage here on
continue our special coverage here on BBC News. Stay with us.
[Music] Heat.
You're with BBC News. I'm Casha Madiraa. We're continuing with our extended
We're continuing with our extended coverage of this initial phase of Donald
coverage of this initial phase of Donald Trump's overall peace plan for Gaza. So
Trump's overall peace plan for Gaza. So when I say initial phase because there
when I say initial phase because there are elements to this and at the moment
are elements to this and at the moment we are watching the ceasefire agreement
we are watching the ceasefire agreement that has been implemented
that has been implemented hold within the past hour and a two two
hold within the past hour and a two two hours and a half now we have had that
hours and a half now we have had that ceasefire a critical point because up
ceasefire a critical point because up until now we have actually seen up until
until now we have actually seen up until that ceasefire from 2 and a half hours
that ceasefire from 2 and a half hours ago We did see strikes into Gaza. So
ago We did see strikes into Gaza. So that is now in place. The IDF confirming
that is now in place. The IDF confirming that. And so this is why we can see this
that. And so this is why we can see this movement, this exodus of people moving
movement, this exodus of people moving up to the north of Gaza where
up to the north of Gaza where Palestinians will be trying to find what
Palestinians will be trying to find what is left of their homes. We know that so
is left of their homes. We know that so much of Gaza has been raised to the
much of Gaza has been raised to the ground, but still these people prefer to
ground, but still these people prefer to move back to be near to what is left to
move back to be near to what is left to their homes. Of course, this part of the
their homes. Of course, this part of the ceasefire plan is also in conjunction
ceasefire plan is also in conjunction with the release of the remaining
with the release of the remaining hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, 20
hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza, 20 of whom are still alive, 28 who have
of whom are still alive, 28 who have deceased. And the remains,
deceased. And the remains, their remains will also be brought back
their remains will also be brought back to their families who have been waiting
to their families who have been waiting for so long for this moment.
for so long for this moment. As part of this, as part of this initial
As part of this, as part of this initial phase, we're also expecting the release
phase, we're also expecting the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinians,
of nearly 2,000 Palestinians, 1,700 of whom have been held in Israeli
1,700 of whom have been held in Israeli prisons since Hamas's full scamas's
prisons since Hamas's full scamas's attack on Israel, the 7th of October,
attack on Israel, the 7th of October, 2023.
2023. And also there will be the release of
And also there will be the release of around 250 Palestinians who have been
around 250 Palestinians who have been held in Israeli prisons for much much
held in Israeli prisons for much much longer who have been accused of the
longer who have been accused of the murder of Israelis. So a very
murder of Israelis. So a very complicated
complicated part to this initial phase within that
part to this initial phase within that also we know that the IDF the Israeli
also we know that the IDF the Israeli Defense Force is also moving back to a
Defense Force is also moving back to a line that has been agreed. So they'll
line that has been agreed. So they'll still be in Gaza. They'll still occupy
still be in Gaza. They'll still occupy 20 53% of the Gaza Strip, but they are
20 53% of the Gaza Strip, but they are moving back. And so that's what we're
moving back. And so that's what we're witnessing unfold here as we monitor
witnessing unfold here as we monitor this live shot of the Gaza Strip,
this live shot of the Gaza Strip, central Gaza, as thousands of people
central Gaza, as thousands of people move back to the north. In addition to
move back to the north. In addition to all of this, aid will be released.
all of this, aid will be released. Authority has been granted. aid has been
Authority has been granted. aid has been allowed to move into Gaza. Desperately
allowed to move into Gaza. Desperately needed aid, not just food, which is
needed aid, not just food, which is really needed given the malnutrition,
really needed given the malnutrition, the starvation, but also medical aid as
the starvation, but also medical aid as well. So many of Gaza's hospitals also
well. So many of Gaza's hospitals also raised also in
raised also in a real difficult
a real difficult state, in real need and also tents as
state, in real need and also tents as well. so that people just be a are able
well. so that people just be a are able to put up some form of shelter. Now,
to put up some form of shelter. Now, what that we don't know is whether that
what that we don't know is whether that aid is already accessing Gaza. That is
aid is already accessing Gaza. That is still a little bit unclear. So there are
still a little bit unclear. So there are still many elements to what we're seeing
still many elements to what we're seeing as being unclear, but what we're
as being unclear, but what we're witnessing right now is just that
witnessing right now is just that initial implementation of the ceasefire
initial implementation of the ceasefire agreement, the first phase of a wider
agreement, the first phase of a wider plan in order to eventually hopefully
plan in order to eventually hopefully bring peace to Gaza. Now, a little bit
bring peace to Gaza. Now, a little bit earlier, my colleague Lee Ducet, our
earlier, my colleague Lee Ducet, our chief international correspondent. She
chief international correspondent. She spoke to our Gaza correspondent, Rushi
spoke to our Gaza correspondent, Rushi Abu Alu about the reports that he was
Abu Alu about the reports that he was hearing from contacts in Gaza. So, let's
hearing from contacts in Gaza. So, let's hear his answers. For the last an hour
hear his answers. For the last an hour and a half, we haven't heard any report
and a half, we haven't heard any report about Israeli air strike as thousands of
about Israeli air strike as thousands of people started to walk back into Gaza
people started to walk back into Gaza City since the Israeli army withdrawn
City since the Israeli army withdrawn its forces only from the beach road.
its forces only from the beach road. Well, Salah road the main one is still
Well, Salah road the main one is still still closed and people are not allowed
still closed and people are not allowed to leave it. It depends of how much
to leave it. It depends of how much money the people have. They can hire
money the people have. They can hire either a car or a donkey cart or a
either a car or a donkey cart or a bigger h backup car. But the majority of
bigger h backup car. But the majority of the people say that they are they don't
the people say that they are they don't have 4,000 shekel which is about 900
have 4,000 shekel which is about 900 pound to pay for this trip. So they walk
pound to pay for this trip. So they walk about 20 kilometers. I was speaking to a
about 20 kilometers. I was speaking to a teacher this morning. He was waiting
teacher this morning. He was waiting there and now he's walking in the middle
there and now he's walking in the middle of the of the crowd. He said that it is
of the of the crowd. He said that it is very very very difficult journey without
very very very difficult journey without water and food. People looks very tired,
water and food. People looks very tired, grim faces and they are working to after
grim faces and they are working to after the news from Gaza. They received this
the news from Gaza. They received this morning that the destruction is
morning that the destruction is something that Gaza never seen before.
something that Gaza never seen before. Especially the main three neighborhood,
Especially the main three neighborhood, the northern neighborhood of Shehardan,
the northern neighborhood of Shehardan, Sabra and Zetun area, about 90% of the
Sabra and Zetun area, about 90% of the homes and infrastructure is destroyed.
>> And under the new withdrawal plan for Israeli forces, those those lines
Israeli forces, those those lines protect quite a few Palestinians from
protect quite a few Palestinians from returning to what's left of their homes.
Well, 900,000 Palestinians will not be allowed to go back to their
allowed to go back to their neighborhoods during the first phase of
neighborhoods during the first phase of the ceasefire which no one know for how
the ceasefire which no one know for how long it will last. So the entire city of
long it will last. So the entire city of Rafa, all of the population of Rafa,
Rafa, all of the population of Rafa, about 200,000 people are staying in Al-
about 200,000 people are staying in Al- Moazi and they will continue to stay
Moazi and they will continue to stay there because no one is allowed to go
there because no one is allowed to go back to Rafa Hanu and Bah the two main
back to Rafa Hanu and Bah the two main places in northern Gaza are also out of
places in northern Gaza are also out of control,
control, still under Israeli control. No one will
still under Israeli control. No one will be allowed about a quarter of Gaza city
be allowed about a quarter of Gaza city west eastern neighborhoods half of
west eastern neighborhoods half of canunes and uh 10% of their bal so we
canunes and uh 10% of their bal so we are talking about 9,000 people in total
are talking about 9,000 people in total are not going to be allowed to go back
are not going to be allowed to go back to their homes.
to their homes. So, Rushi Abu Alu there, our Gaza
So, Rushi Abu Alu there, our Gaza correspondent who is currently based in
correspondent who is currently based in Istanbul in Turkey, just outlining still
Istanbul in Turkey, just outlining still the complexities
the complexities of what we're witnessing now because of
of what we're witnessing now because of course so much of Gaza has been reduced
course so much of Gaza has been reduced to rubble. When these tens of thousands
to rubble. When these tens of thousands of people that we're witnessing now make
of people that we're witnessing now make their way along this coastal road to the
their way along this coastal road to the north, they will find their homes
north, they will find their homes reduced to rubble. So, a difficult
reduced to rubble. So, a difficult situation, but tentatively we are seeing
situation, but tentatively we are seeing this initial ceasefire hold. critical in
this initial ceasefire hold. critical in order to get people
order to get people back to their homes so they can see what
back to their homes so they can see what they've lost, but also to get the
they've lost, but also to get the Israeli hostages out, to get them
Israeli hostages out, to get them returned because we know that that is so
returned because we know that that is so much what the families of those hostages
much what the families of those hostages have been aching for.
the Middle East because that is of course our main focus at the moment. And
course our main focus at the moment. And we are hearing that Israel's justice
we are hearing that Israel's justice ministry has published a list of 250
ministry has published a list of 250 prisoners who are expected to be
prisoners who are expected to be released in exchange for hostages who
released in exchange for hostages who are still held in Gaza as part of the
are still held in Gaza as part of the deal with Hamas. Um, a list that seems
deal with Hamas. Um, a list that seems to have emerged does not include the
to have emerged does not include the names of several senior Palestinian
names of several senior Palestinian militants seen as symbols of resistance,
militants seen as symbols of resistance, but names that Israel clearly uh does
but names that Israel clearly uh does not want to be released. um and uh Hamas
not want to be released. um and uh Hamas had called for those names. So that will
had called for those names. So that will no doubt have been very much part of the
no doubt have been very much part of the diplomatic negotiations that we have
diplomatic negotiations that we have seen.
seen. We'll keep you across all the
We'll keep you across all the developments around the world and across
developments around the world and across the UK. This is BBC News.
So we continue to monitor to that live scene from central Gaza as thousands of
scene from central Gaza as thousands of people are heading back to the north to
people are heading back to the north to see what's left of their homes as we
see what's left of their homes as we monitor this ceasefire. Now just an
monitor this ceasefire. Now just an update we've had from the
update we've had from the from Gaza the Hamas run health ministry
from Gaza the Hamas run health ministry and in terms of the numbers of killed
and in terms of the numbers of killed they say that 17 people were killed in
they say that 17 people were killed in the past 24 hours uh according to the
the past 24 hours uh according to the Hamasan health ministry its daily update
Hamasan health ministry its daily update adding that 71 people have been injured
adding that 71 people have been injured and
and this is important because obviously When
this is important because obviously When the Israeli cabinet when they ratified
the Israeli cabinet when they ratified this the ceasefire deal, when they
this the ceasefire deal, when they approved and voted for that deal, there
approved and voted for that deal, there was a little bit of confusion as to when
was a little bit of confusion as to when the ceasefire would be brought in. We
the ceasefire would be brought in. We thought that it would take effect
thought that it would take effect imminently. But then we waited and it
imminently. But then we waited and it wasn't until the IDF confirmed that the
wasn't until the IDF confirmed that the ceasefire was then in place from midday
ceasefire was then in place from midday local time. So, we're just approaching
local time. So, we're just approaching up to nearly 3 hours of this ceasefire
up to nearly 3 hours of this ceasefire that we we then were made aware that
that we we then were made aware that that was when the air strike stopped
that was when the air strike stopped because yesterday we saw relief. We saw
because yesterday we saw relief. We saw celebration. We saw just a sense of a a
celebration. We saw just a sense of a a real cautious hope, but hope
real cautious hope, but hope nevertheless that the bombing would
nevertheless that the bombing would stop. And then overnight we saw that the
stop. And then overnight we saw that the air strikes from Israel into Gaza. In
air strikes from Israel into Gaza. In that time we've had that update from the
that time we've had that update from the Hamas run health ministry that 17 people
Hamas run health ministry that 17 people were killed in the past 24 hours, 71
were killed in the past 24 hours, 71 injured.
injured. This brings the overall death toll since
This brings the overall death toll since the 7th of October 2023 to just over
the 7th of October 2023 to just over 67,000.
And we say the Hamas run health ministry, but we do know that the UN
ministry, but we do know that the UN says that those figures are pretty
says that those figures are pretty accurate. Potentially maybe even an
accurate. Potentially maybe even an underestimation.
underestimation. 67
67 211 people killed since October the 7th,
211 people killed since October the 7th, 2023 in Gaza.
2023 in Gaza. So a complicated situation there as we
So a complicated situation there as we maintain
maintain these images for you as we watch the
these images for you as we watch the ceasefire hold. And of course this will
ceasefire hold. And of course this will then enable it gives Hamas 72 hours in
then enable it gives Hamas 72 hours in which to gather the 20 remaining living
which to gather the 20 remaining living hostages. The remains of the 28 who were
hostages. The remains of the 28 who were deceased. 48 hostages in total still
deceased. 48 hostages in total still within Gaza. They will now be returned
within Gaza. They will now be returned to their loved ones. Their loved ones
to their loved ones. Their loved ones who have been waiting so patiently for
who have been waiting so patiently for this moment to happen. We don't know
this moment to happen. We don't know when it will happen. We don't know where
when it will happen. We don't know where it will happen. And there are still so
it will happen. And there are still so many unknown elements of this and we
many unknown elements of this and we don't know whether indeed all of the
don't know whether indeed all of the remaining deceased will be returned to
remaining deceased will be returned to their families because our understanding
their families because our understanding is that there are a number of the
is that there are a number of the remains of the deceased that are not
remains of the deceased that are not accounted for. So a really complicated
accounted for. So a really complicated situation, a difficult situation. But as
situation, a difficult situation. But as we stand, we are witnessing the first
we stand, we are witnessing the first hours of this ceasefire deal, of this
hours of this ceasefire deal, of this wider plan that has been pushed forward
wider plan that has been pushed forward by Donald Trump and his administration
by Donald Trump and his administration that has enabled us to reach this moment
that has enabled us to reach this moment where a ceasefire has held for nearly 3
where a ceasefire has held for nearly 3 hours now. We're just creeping up to
hours now. We're just creeping up to that 3-hour mark. Well, earlier my
that 3-hour mark. Well, earlier my colleague Lee Ducet spoke to Tess
colleague Lee Ducet spoke to Tess Ingram. Tess Ingram is from UNICEF, the
Ingram. Tess Ingram is from UNICEF, the Children's Arm of the United Nations.
Children's Arm of the United Nations. Tess is in Al-Moasi in southern Gaza.
Tess is in Al-Moasi in southern Gaza. One of those areas that were deemed a
One of those areas that were deemed a safe area by the IDF.
safe area by the IDF. Also, as we've been witnessing through
Also, as we've been witnessing through these past two years, an area that has
these past two years, an area that has also experienced
also experienced strikes as well. Tess describe to Lees
strikes as well. Tess describe to Lees the conditions that UNICEF are currently
the conditions that UNICEF are currently working in.
working in. >> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are
>> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are so many people that have been displaced
so many people that have been displaced here over the last few weeks living in
here over the last few weeks living in really, really difficult conditions.
really, really difficult conditions. Lack of shelter, people under pieces of
Lack of shelter, people under pieces of tarpolan with very little to keep them
tarpolan with very little to keep them warm as winter approaches. Children
warm as winter approaches. Children walking through broken rubble without
walking through broken rubble without shoes. Insufficient access to food and
shoes. Insufficient access to food and water. And throughout all of that,
water. And throughout all of that, UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But
UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But like it has been throughout this
like it has been throughout this conflict, we've been restricted in what
conflict, we've been restricted in what we can bring in and and what areas we
we can bring in and and what areas we have access to. So we are pleased. We
have access to. So we are pleased. We really welcome this news of the
really welcome this news of the ceasefire and we hope that it will lead
ceasefire and we hope that it will lead to a scaling up of aid to help address
to a scaling up of aid to help address conditions here in Almoasi, but across
conditions here in Almoasi, but across the Gaza Strip.
the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing, Tess, that people
And are you seeing, Tess, that people are starting to move uh to go back to
are starting to move uh to go back to their homes if indeed they can along the
their homes if indeed they can along the lines permitted by the new Israeli
lines permitted by the new Israeli deployment lines.
deployment lines. There's a lot of excitement, but also
There's a lot of excitement, but also apprehension about that move around
apprehension about that move around people make wanting to make sure that
people make wanting to make sure that they're going to be safe if they do
they're going to be safe if they do move. But of course, already beginning
move. But of course, already beginning to pack up their belongings because as
to pack up their belongings because as people told me when I was here during
people told me when I was here during the February ceasefire and again now
the February ceasefire and again now home is home and they want to go back to
home is home and they want to go back to their communities and their lands even
their communities and their lands even if it has been reduced to rubble. But
if it has been reduced to rubble. But what is then critical is that the
what is then critical is that the humanitarian response is there for them,
humanitarian response is there for them, providing them with that shelter, with a
providing them with that shelter, with a tent, with access to safe drinking
tent, with access to safe drinking water, with those shoes for their
water, with those shoes for their children. And that's going to be our
children. And that's going to be our focus in the coming days is to follow
focus in the coming days is to follow the thousands of people as they move
the thousands of people as they move back to their communities.
And do you have any sense as to how quickly the humanitarian aspect of this
quickly the humanitarian aspect of this new deal is going to come into force?
new deal is going to come into force? You may remember that um in the
You may remember that um in the ceasefire in January, the gates opened
ceasefire in January, the gates opened quite quickly and uh within no time at
quite quickly and uh within no time at all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling
all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling across the border. What's your sense
across the border. What's your sense this time?
this time? >> We're really hoping for the same based
>> We're really hoping for the same based on our understanding of of what has been
on our understanding of of what has been negotiated in this plan and presented by
negotiated in this plan and presented by the mediators. The UN is going to be at
the mediators. The UN is going to be at the heart of this humanitarian response.
the heart of this humanitarian response. And that's what we're being uh that's
And that's what we're being uh that's what we're working around is is to have
what we're working around is is to have the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300
the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300 trucks pre-positioned outside of the
trucks pre-positioned outside of the Gaza Strip ready to scale up our
Gaza Strip ready to scale up our response. We have had trucks come in
response. We have had trucks come in yesterday and today, but we need to see
yesterday and today, but we need to see that increase, as you say, happen very
that increase, as you say, happen very quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the
quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the next day, we can see that scale up
next day, we can see that scale up meaningfully because the stakes here are
meaningfully because the stakes here are really high. We're talking about
really high. We're talking about childrens whose immune systems have been
childrens whose immune systems have been shattered, children who have gone years
shattered, children who have gone years without access to nutritious food. Um
without access to nutritious food. Um and of course with winter approaching uh
and of course with winter approaching uh so that scaled up is is incredibly time
so that scaled up is is incredibly time critical or we risk seeing continued
critical or we risk seeing continued children dying from the humanitarian
children dying from the humanitarian crisis on the ground.
crisis on the ground. >> Yes, of course it will be the immediate
>> Yes, of course it will be the immediate needs as you've been mentioning that
needs as you've been mentioning that have to be met first. But uh I suppose
have to be met first. But uh I suppose if if this calm holds, you perhaps can
if if this calm holds, you perhaps can begin to try to ease the trauma that all
begin to try to ease the trauma that all of the children of Gaza have experienced
of the children of Gaza have experienced and really cannot be cannot start to
and really cannot be cannot start to heal unless the bombing start stops
heal unless the bombing start stops unless that sound of the drone in the
unless that sound of the drone in the air goes away until the fear goes.
air goes away until the fear goes. >> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still
>> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still hear the drones now. for so for children
hear the drones now. for so for children the sound of a ceasefire the sound of
the sound of a ceasefire the sound of peace hasn't come true yet and and we do
peace hasn't come true yet and and we do really need that in order to address the
really need that in order to address the horrors that they've experienced over
horrors that they've experienced over more than 2 years now and I think it's
more than 2 years now and I think it's important for us to remember that in why
important for us to remember that in why this ceasefire must be sustained why
this ceasefire must be sustained why it's so critical children have been
it's so critical children have been disappointed before they've had a
disappointed before they've had a ceasefire be broken fall away in front
ceasefire be broken fall away in front of them and then endure more months of
of them and then endure more months of of loss and of of trauma and of fear. So
of loss and of of trauma and of fear. So if that happened again, that would be
if that happened again, that would be devastating for the mental health of
devastating for the mental health of children, all people in the Gaza Strip.
children, all people in the Gaza Strip. We need that peace and we need to be
We need that peace and we need to be able to scale up that mental health
able to scale up that mental health response here for children in Gaza to
response here for children in Gaza to begin to address uh what they have
begin to address uh what they have endured. It's just as important as the
endured. It's just as important as the shelter, the food, and the education
shelter, the food, and the education that we're going to provide to kids
that we're going to provide to kids here.
So Tess Ingram there from UNICEF who is based in Al-Mwasi in southern Gaza just
based in Al-Mwasi in southern Gaza just giving us a an indication an insight a
giving us a an indication an insight a glimpse of the complexities
glimpse of the complexities of what is involved in bringing back
of what is involved in bringing back some kind of
some kind of normaly to the strip. A really huge
normaly to the strip. A really huge operation will be need needed in order
operation will be need needed in order to
to rebuild. That is of course for the next
rebuild. That is of course for the next stages of this peace plan endorsed by
stages of this peace plan endorsed by Donald Trump. At the moment though, the
Donald Trump. At the moment though, the need is great. the aid needs to get in.
need is great. the aid needs to get in. And we're witnessing as thousands of
And we're witnessing as thousands of Palestinians are now returning from
Palestinians are now returning from southern Gaza to Gaza City after
southern Gaza to Gaza City after weeks of fleeing the Israeli offensive
weeks of fleeing the Israeli offensive which has turned much of Gaza City and
which has turned much of Gaza City and much of Gaza indeed into rubble. Many of
much of Gaza indeed into rubble. Many of them traveling on foot,
them traveling on foot, many carrying
many carrying what they have. for those that are able
what they have. for those that are able to
to or have a car that's being used. But
or have a car that's being used. But just to put this into context, actually
just to put this into context, actually an interesting insight from our Gaza
an interesting insight from our Gaza correspondent Rushi Abu Aloo who's
correspondent Rushi Abu Aloo who's currently based in Turkey. He's been
currently based in Turkey. He's been hearing from people on the ground and
hearing from people on the ground and the just to give you an insight into
the just to give you an insight into what these people are now the challenge
what these people are now the challenge ahead of them that even to be able to
ahead of them that even to be able to hire a car in order to move what
hire a car in order to move what possessions
possessions Palestinians have, it costs around 4,000
Palestinians have, it costs around 4,000 shekels, which translated is
shekels, which translated is just over $1,200.
just over $1,200. That's just over £900.
That's just over £900. And that is according to the people that
And that is according to the people that uh Rushi has been speaking to, it's it's
uh Rushi has been speaking to, it's it's far beyond what most people can afford
far beyond what most people can afford just to hire a car to make that journey
just to hire a car to make that journey home. And that's before we even talk
home. And that's before we even talk about what home looks like. Because so
about what home looks like. Because so much of Gaza City and Gaza has been
much of Gaza City and Gaza has been reduced to rubble that these people,
reduced to rubble that these people, they have no idea what they're returning
they have no idea what they're returning to. But as we heard there from the
to. But as we heard there from the UNICEF spokesperson,
UNICEF spokesperson, people just want to go back to where
people just want to go back to where they their homes once stood. And that's
they their homes once stood. And that's what we're witnessing now. people taking
what we're witnessing now. people taking advantage of that ceasefire that is
advantage of that ceasefire that is coming up to the third hour of its
coming up to the third hour of its holding. They're taking advantage of
holding. They're taking advantage of that and they are on the move. On the
that and they are on the move. On the move from the south which part pockets
move from the south which part pockets of which Alawasi included have been
of which Alawasi included have been designated as a safe area by the IDF. a
designated as a safe area by the IDF. a safe area, which we also know there were
safe area, which we also know there were strikes upon,
strikes upon, but safe compared to what was happening
but safe compared to what was happening up in especially the north of Gaza,
up in especially the north of Gaza, especially Gaza City with that continual
especially Gaza City with that continual raising of the tower bloss
in those areas of the north, especially
So Again, this is a complicated deal because when we've been talking to
deal because when we've been talking to commentators and people that have been
commentators and people that have been really monitoring this closely, it is
really monitoring this closely, it is vague and arguably it's vague to get to
vague and arguably it's vague to get to this stage, the ceasefire, which has
this stage, the ceasefire, which has been critical in not just enabling and
been critical in not just enabling and facilitating people to move back to
facilitating people to move back to their home regions, but also in order to
their home regions, but also in order to enable Hamas, give them that 72-hour
enable Hamas, give them that 72-hour window in which to get the hostages,
window in which to get the hostages, gather them,
gather them, and bring them back to their loved ones.
and bring them back to their loved ones. But moving forward, there will still be
But moving forward, there will still be an awful lot of negotiation that is
an awful lot of negotiation that is needed
needed because the vague nature of the deal
because the vague nature of the deal means that there's still so much that is
means that there's still so much that is up in the air. Not least a timeline for
up in the air. Not least a timeline for a transfer of authority, not least how
a transfer of authority, not least how Gaza will be rebuilt, not least who will
Gaza will be rebuilt, not least who will be
be in the mechanism, the governance
in the mechanism, the governance mechanism structure.
mechanism structure. So an awful lot that still is unknown,
So an awful lot that still is unknown, but at the moment we know that the IDF
but at the moment we know that the IDF says the ceasefire is in effect and
says the ceasefire is in effect and that's what we're seeing on the ground.
that's what we're seeing on the ground. We also know that aid
We also know that aid is due to be immediately allowed into
is due to be immediately allowed into Gaza unrestricted, but we don't know if
Gaza unrestricted, but we don't know if this is yet happening. We know that the
this is yet happening. We know that the UN,
UN, the UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher
the UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher was earlier saying that they have
was earlier saying that they have 172,000 metric tons of of food, of
172,000 metric tons of of food, of medicines, of tents, all cleared to go.
medicines, of tents, all cleared to go. all cleared to go in. Their community
all cleared to go in. Their community networks are ready to distribute that
networks are ready to distribute that aid across Gaza and it will maintain the
aid across Gaza and it will maintain the population of Gaza for 3 months. We know
population of Gaza for 3 months. We know that that is ready and waiting to go in,
that that is ready and waiting to go in, but we don't quite yet know if
but we don't quite yet know if that aid resumption, the the bringing in
that aid resumption, the the bringing in of aid, whether that has indeed been
of aid, whether that has indeed been resumed.
resumed. We know that the Israeli troops have now
We know that the Israeli troops have now completed their initial stage of
completed their initial stage of withdrawal of their withdrawal to the
withdrawal of their withdrawal to the deployment lines which were agreed
deployment lines which were agreed during negotiations.
during negotiations. But
But what we don't know is when the next
what we don't know is when the next parts of the withdrawal will take place.
parts of the withdrawal will take place. So at the moment that line means that
So at the moment that line means that the IDF will be within a perimeter that
the IDF will be within a perimeter that means that they are still within around
means that they are still within around just over half of Gaza and then the next
just over half of Gaza and then the next phase of their withdrawal will be
phase of their withdrawal will be implemented but we don't yet know when
implemented but we don't yet know when that is going to happen.
that is going to happen. We know that
We know that within that withdrawal, there is a
within that withdrawal, there is a 72-hour window for all the remaining
72-hour window for all the remaining Israeli hostages,
Israeli hostages, alive and deceased,
alive and deceased, to be released.
to be released. They have until 12:00 local time on
They have until 12:00 local time on Monday in order for them to be brought
Monday in order for them to be brought to
meeting points. We don't know when exactly that's going to happen. We don't
exactly that's going to happen. We don't know where that's going to happen, but
know where that's going to happen, but they have that 72 hours for the
they have that 72 hours for the remaining 20 living hostages and the
remaining 20 living hostages and the remains of the 28 who are deceased to be
remains of the 28 who are deceased to be released. And then our understanding is
released. And then our understanding is around 1,700 Palestinian prisoners who
around 1,700 Palestinian prisoners who have been detained since October the
have been detained since October the 7th, two years ago, they will be
7th, two years ago, they will be released. And our understanding is that
released. And our understanding is that another 250 Palestinian prisoners who
another 250 Palestinian prisoners who have been held on a more long-term
have been held on a more long-term basis, some of whom have been accused of
basis, some of whom have been accused of killing Israelis, they too will be
killing Israelis, they too will be released. Our understanding is that one
released. Our understanding is that one person's name is not on that list.
person's name is not on that list. Marwan Bguti, a senior figure in Mahm
Marwan Bguti, a senior figure in Mahm Mahmud Abbas's Fatar movement, someone
Mahmud Abbas's Fatar movement, someone that's hugely popular in the West Bank,
that's hugely popular in the West Bank, also popular in Gaza, and who's been
also popular in Gaza, and who's been regularly spoken about as a potential
regularly spoken about as a potential future leader of the of the region. He
future leader of the of the region. He is not among those to be released.
is not among those to be released. So like I say, still an awful lot of
So like I say, still an awful lot of unknowns, but what we can say is that
unknowns, but what we can say is that this first phase at least the ceasefire
this first phase at least the ceasefire is holding and according to a US envoy
is holding and according to a US envoy who is being who is citing the Pentagon,
who is being who is citing the Pentagon, the is Israel has completed that first
the is Israel has completed that first phase of its Gaza withdrawal to the
phase of its Gaza withdrawal to the agreed line.
Now, my colleague Lee Ducet was able to speak to Ibrahim Ispata. He's a
speak to Ibrahim Ispata. He's a Palestinian who escaped Gaza for his
Palestinian who escaped Gaza for his daughter to receive some specialized
daughter to receive some specialized medical care. He says he was telling Lee
medical care. He says he was telling Lee that his brother and his family still
that his brother and his family still remain in al- Noasi, that part that was
remain in al- Noasi, that part that was described as a safe area in the south of
described as a safe area in the south of Gaza. So, let's just listen to their
Gaza. So, let's just listen to their conversation.
conversation. >> They are still under the trauma. They
>> They are still under the trauma. They couldn't believe we have reached to this
couldn't believe we have reached to this moment. This moment it's been delayed
moment. This moment it's been delayed for two years. Been waiting this moment
for two years. Been waiting this moment for two years. I was my families. I was
for two years. I was my families. I was deeply under a very uh hard condition. I
deeply under a very uh hard condition. I remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea
remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea city under a heavy fire. after midnight
city under a heavy fire. after midnight we stay like all night try to follow up
we stay like all night try to follow up with him till he reach to Alasi and they
with him till he reach to Alasi and they stay on the street so right now we are
stay on the street so right now we are very happy nobody care about what's the
very happy nobody care about what's the condition whatever the circumstances but
condition whatever the circumstances but at least right now they can sleep safely
at least right now they can sleep safely after this uh devastating two years
>> and how hard will it be for your family if this ceasefire will help enormously
if this ceasefire will help enormously but as you know but I don't need to tell
but as you know but I don't need to tell you the level of destruction is also
you the level of destruction is also enormous it's going to continue to be a
enormous it's going to continue to be a huge challenge is it not
huge challenge is it not >> uh it's going to be difficult uh because
>> uh it's going to be difficult uh because we are specifically from Shaya
we are specifically from Shaya neighborhood uh right now since the
neighborhood uh right now since the morning they are saying that uh the
morning they are saying that uh the Israeli will not withdraw from uh our
Israeli will not withdraw from uh our neighborhood so we are happy but at the
neighborhood so we are happy but at the same time we are deis is stating about
same time we are deis is stating about uh okay this is a ceasefire but where
uh okay this is a ceasefire but where what's the future when we can put back
what's the future when we can put back to our land at least because our home
to our land at least because our home was uh at the beginning at the first
was uh at the beginning at the first phase of the at the first ceasefire it
phase of the at the first ceasefire it was part partly destroyed right now it's
was part partly destroyed right now it's completely destroyed uh so like we were
completely destroyed uh so like we were like spoken about when we put back and
like spoken about when we put back and then like uh some people say that our
then like uh some people say that our home is completely destroyed then right
home is completely destroyed then right now the news came that we he will not be
now the news came that we he will not be able to back our houses. Uh so this like
able to back our houses. Uh so this like uh indeed we are happy it's over but
uh indeed we are happy it's over but still like what's the future? What's
still like what's the future? What's coming next? We have no idea when we put
coming next? We have no idea when we put back because right now I was talking
back because right now I was talking with him. I was spoke with my sister too
with him. I was spoke with my sister too when you will back they say that we
when you will back they say that we couldn't because they say that tanks is
couldn't because they say that tanks is in our neighborhood and at the at this
in our neighborhood and at the at this stage they will not withdraw from this
stage they will not withdraw from this area but at least they they will be
area but at least they they will be sleep normal like any other people like
sleep normal like any other people like any other people around the world
any other people around the world without like in which way I'm going to
without like in which way I'm going to die I'm going to stay alive tomorrow or
die I'm going to stay alive tomorrow or I'm going to lose someone else at least
I'm going to lose someone else at least now they have this sense to Sleep well
now they have this sense to Sleep well like any other people around the world.
So a lot of moving parts. A lot to discuss. Who better than with our
discuss. Who better than with our international editor Jeremy Bowen.
international editor Jeremy Bowen. Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look,
Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look, we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about
we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about the next possible moves for the UN. They
the next possible moves for the UN. They are ready to get aid in. We've just
are ready to get aid in. We've just heard from Professor Soul, the UN
heard from Professor Soul, the UN special reperator on human rights, who's
special reperator on human rights, who's saying that the the plan of Donald Trump
saying that the the plan of Donald Trump is pretty vague. There are still things
is pretty vague. There are still things that really need to be nailed down. And
that really need to be nailed down. And ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of
ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of smoke across Gaza. just help us to
smoke across Gaza. just help us to unpick all of this.
unpick all of this. >> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I think that's absolutely the case.
think that's absolutely the case. Whatever people are saying. Uh and maybe
Whatever people are saying. Uh and maybe the next 24 hours or so that is going to
the next 24 hours or so that is going to happen that they will stop those
happen that they will stop those strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back and that's probably why they're
and that's probably why they're continuing them. In terms of this all
continuing them. In terms of this all goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that was that he put out a week or two ago.
was that he put out a week or two ago. And the thing about it is that if you
And the thing about it is that if you look at it, there is very little detail.
look at it, there is very little detail. There isn't just a lack of detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail. There's ambiguity. There's there some
There's ambiguity. There's there some things even seem quite contradictory
things even seem quite contradictory inside it. So the really big diplomatic
inside it. So the really big diplomatic challenge now that they've done the
challenge now that they've done the first phase or agree to that and it's
first phase or agree to that and it's going to unfold over the next couple of
going to unfold over the next couple of days. Seems pretty certain is is filling
days. Seems pretty certain is is filling in all of those gaps. And that is the
in all of those gaps. And that is the difficult stuff because ambiguity is
difficult stuff because ambiguity is something that works quite well where
something that works quite well where you're trying to get people to agree,
you're trying to get people to agree, but when it comes to actually
but when it comes to actually implementing, you need hard uh deals.
implementing, you need hard uh deals. >> And that's a really important point
>> And that's a really important point because we are quite unclear when it
because we are quite unclear when it comes to a timeline for a transfer of
comes to a timeline for a transfer of authority, how the governance mechanism
authority, how the governance mechanism will even work across Gaza. Who is even
will even work across Gaza. Who is even involved in that? Jeremy,
involved in that? Jeremy, >> well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh, in
>> well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh, in the 20point plan, there are various
the 20point plan, there are various aspirational things and there is they've
aspirational things and there is they've said that here's the structure. There'll
said that here's the structure. There'll be this council of piece on the top. Uh,
be this council of piece on the top. Uh, Donald Trump will be the chair. Uh, Tony
Donald Trump will be the chair. Uh, Tony Blair's going to be involved as well.
Blair's going to be involved as well. Um, and then there's going to be some
Um, and then there's going to be some kind of technocratic institution and
kind of technocratic institution and there will be some kind of international
there will be some kind of international force. It's very vague. there have to be
force. It's very vague. there have to be a lot of very um hard details worked out
a lot of very um hard details worked out and and that's the tough thing uh and
and and that's the tough thing uh and that things have to happen too like a UN
that things have to happen too like a UN security council resolution to authorize
security council resolution to authorize the presence of these foreign troops
the presence of these foreign troops there. I don't think that um Arab or
there. I don't think that um Arab or Muslim uh countries are going to really
Muslim uh countries are going to really want to get involved in something that
want to get involved in something that legally would be uh an illegal operation
legally would be uh an illegal operation lacking that kind of legitimacy that you
lacking that kind of legitimacy that you get from a security council resolution.
get from a security council resolution. I think they could get the resolution,
I think they could get the resolution, but it takes time and with the
but it takes time and with the difficulties in Gaza and the complexity
difficulties in Gaza and the complexity of things, maybe they don't have
of things, maybe they don't have indefinite amounts of time. And on that
indefinite amounts of time. And on that point, of course, aid getting in is
point, of course, aid getting in is absolutely critical in that first stage
absolutely critical in that first stage uh given the the famine, given the
uh given the the famine, given the humanitarian uh issues there, the acute
humanitarian uh issues there, the acute malnutrition. But what about the
malnutrition. But what about the rebuilding? Because we see the absolute
rebuilding? Because we see the absolute devastation across Gaza. Is there even
devastation across Gaza. Is there even any idea of who will be undertaking that
any idea of who will be undertaking that the contracts that potentially will be
the contracts that potentially will be implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt?
implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even clear on that, are
We're still not even clear on that, are we, Jeremy?
we, Jeremy? No, that's a long way off. That's a long
No, that's a long way off. That's a long way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
way off. Uh there's there's, you know, hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble apart from anything else. I think that
apart from anything else. I think that that will have to wait quite a while
that will have to wait quite a while because first of all what they need to
because first of all what they need to do is to get some stability for more
do is to get some stability for more than two million people almost all of
than two million people almost all of whom have been displaced on multiple
whom have been displaced on multiple occasions who it was already with the
occasions who it was already with the entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny
entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny piece of land was already one of the
piece of land was already one of the most densely populated places in the
most densely populated places in the world and now more than two million
world and now more than two million people have been pushed into a fraction
people have been pushed into a fraction of it by the IDF by the Israeli military
of it by the IDF by the Israeli military country. So question mark, how to what
country. So question mark, how to what extent will they be allowed to go back
extent will they be allowed to go back to where they came from? What about what
to where they came from? What about what happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel seems to want to stay in that particular
seems to want to stay in that particular area. There's pressure inside the
area. There's pressure inside the Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't think that's going to be happening.
think that's going to be happening. Certainly not as yet. And they're very
Certainly not as yet. And they're very disappointed that it's not. But it's not
disappointed that it's not. But it's not off the agenda. So there are lots of
off the agenda. So there are lots of things in the future in the immediate
things in the future in the immediate future that we don't know about and the
future that we don't know about and the challenge is going to be to try and deal
challenge is going to be to try and deal with some of these ambiguities and
with some of these ambiguities and uncertainties and come out with a
uncertainties and come out with a tangible diplomatic agreement which you
tangible diplomatic agreement which you know Trump is not a details man. He's
know Trump is not a details man. He's been a bulldozer pushing this through.
been a bulldozer pushing this through. Getting to the detail will take a
Getting to the detail will take a sustained diplomatic effort and
sustained diplomatic effort and agreements. It's not something that
agreements. It's not something that necessarily can be imposed in the same
necessarily can be imposed in the same way that he actually said with, you
way that he actually said with, you know, after the 9th of September attacks
know, after the 9th of September attacks on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in Doha by the Israelis. That's that
Doha by the Israelis. That's that clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his hand massively. And the consequences
hand massively. And the consequences that he's dealing with now is that Trump
that he's dealing with now is that Trump has gone in there because attacking
has gone in there because attacking Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got in there and he's grabbed him by the
in there and he's grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is
scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is going to the table and you're going to
going to the table and you're going to stay there until there is a deal based
stay there until there is a deal based on my 20 points." Now, that has
on my 20 points." Now, that has happened, but what happens next? The
happened, but what happens next? The detailed stuff very difficult to achieve
Now, the Israeli military has announced that the ceasefire in Gaza has come into
that the ceasefire in Gaza has come into effect. We are seeing pictures from Gaza
effect. We are seeing pictures from Gaza showing thousands of displaced
showing thousands of displaced Palestinians filing north towards Gaza
Palestinians filing north towards Gaza City, which until recent days was the
City, which until recent days was the scene of a major Israeli ground
scene of a major Israeli ground offensive and aerial bombardment. You
offensive and aerial bombardment. You can see them walking there by the
can see them walking there by the coastal road. And uh Israel says its
coastal road. And uh Israel says its forces have withdrawn to an agreed line
forces have withdrawn to an agreed line within Gaza. Hamas now has until Monday
within Gaza. Hamas now has until Monday morning to release all Israeli hostages,
morning to release all Israeli hostages, including 20 who are still believed to
including 20 who are still believed to be alive and the bodies of 28 others.
be alive and the bodies of 28 others. Our Middle East correspondent Hugo
Our Middle East correspondent Hugo Bagger reports.
Bagger reports. >> By the road they waited with a few
>> By the road they waited with a few things that were now everything they
things that were now everything they had. Unsure if it was safe to return,
had. Unsure if it was safe to return, unsure if the bombs had stopped falling.
unsure if the bombs had stopped falling. The deal had brought them hope. But this
The deal had brought them hope. But this morning they still didn't know if had
morning they still didn't know if had finally brought them peace.
finally brought them peace. My son and I slept here last night on
My son and I slept here last night on the pavement in the cold waiting to go
the pavement in the cold waiting to go back home. while says, "Even if the
back home. while says, "Even if the house is destroyed, even if it's just
house is destroyed, even if it's just rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent,
rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent, and return to our people."
and return to our people." After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli
After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli military confirmed that the ceasefire
military confirmed that the ceasefire had started. Israeli troops have pulled
had started. Israeli troops have pulled back from some parts, but under the
back from some parts, but under the deal, they still occupy over half of
deal, they still occupy over half of Gaza.
Gaza. Many now going back, even by foot, to
Many now going back, even by foot, to mourn who's been lost and to start
mourn who's been lost and to start rebuilding what's been destroyed.
rebuilding what's been destroyed. In Israel, the countdown for the release
In Israel, the countdown for the release of the hostages has begun. 20 are
of the hostages has begun. 20 are believed to remain alive.
believed to remain alive. One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at
One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.
We hope that he returns safe and sound. And we wish that with God's help within
And we wish that with God's help within the next two or three days, we will see
the next two or three days, we will see him. We'll rejoice together with the
him. We'll rejoice together with the family. And we really hope that
family. And we really hope that everyone, not just him, returns safe and
everyone, not just him, returns safe and sound.
sound. >> It's still not clear when and where the
>> It's still not clear when and where the hostages will be freed. The deal broken
hostages will be freed. The deal broken by Trump is a major victory, but there's
by Trump is a major victory, but there's no clear plan for what happens in Gaza
no clear plan for what happens in Gaza next. The point now is that we need
next. The point now is that we need countries coming together to make peace
countries coming together to make peace a reality and to actually make it happen
a reality and to actually make it happen because this is still a fragile process,
because this is still a fragile process, but it's one that there is huge momentum
but it's one that there is huge momentum behind and huge commitment to. So, we
behind and huge commitment to. So, we have to make it work.
have to make it work. >> They can now walk without fearing the
>> They can now walk without fearing the war. But the Gaza they know is no longer
war. But the Gaza they know is no longer there and no one knows what the new Gaza
there and no one knows what the new Gaza will be.
will be. >> Well, let's get the latest from our
>> Well, let's get the latest from our correspondents in Jerusalem. our Middle
correspondents in Jerusalem. our Middle East correspondent Hugo Bacha and our
East correspondent Hugo Bacha and our North America correspondent Nomia Ikbal.
North America correspondent Nomia Ikbal. Nomia if I can begin with you if I may
Nomia if I can begin with you if I may if we do have her indeed and uh she is
if we do have her indeed and uh she is in DC. Nomia we are expecting Donald
in DC. Nomia we are expecting Donald Trump to travel to the region aren't we?
Trump to travel to the region aren't we? This weekend what are we expecting?
This weekend what are we expecting? >> Yes he's going on Sunday to Israel. He
>> Yes he's going on Sunday to Israel. He will be addressing the Israeli
will be addressing the Israeli parliament. He'll be in the Knessets and
parliament. He'll be in the Knessets and it'll be an opportunity for him to
it'll be an opportunity for him to essentially take a victory lap uh over
essentially take a victory lap uh over the fact that the deal has got this far.
the fact that the deal has got this far. I think it's also an opportunity for him
I think it's also an opportunity for him to uh put pressure maybe on the far
to uh put pressure maybe on the far right in the Israeli government who
right in the Israeli government who despite the deal having gone through the
despite the deal having gone through the first phase are still um not keen on it.
first phase are still um not keen on it. Um also worth mentioning that uh polls
Um also worth mentioning that uh polls suggest that Mr. Trump is much more
suggest that Mr. Trump is much more popular in Israel than Netanyahu. A
popular in Israel than Netanyahu. A something that he hasn't uh that he has
something that he hasn't uh that he has mentioned to Mr. Netanyahu a few times
mentioned to Mr. Netanyahu a few times and then there is an expectation that he
and then there is an expectation that he might go to Cairo next week to take part
might go to Cairo next week to take part in the actual signing of the deal. He
in the actual signing of the deal. He has been invited by Egypt's president
has been invited by Egypt's president and when it all comes down to it Gita
and when it all comes down to it Gita Mr. Trump is very much about the visuals
Mr. Trump is very much about the visuals very much about the optics. He knows
very much about the optics. He knows that this is a moment to take those
that this is a moment to take those iconic pictures uh to to show this
iconic pictures uh to to show this moment in history which um if he does
moment in history which um if he does bull pull it off and he is on the verge
bull pull it off and he is on the verge of achieving something major it will
of achieving something major it will definitely be a significant part of his
definitely be a significant part of his legacy. And let me just bring in Hugo
legacy. And let me just bring in Hugo who is in Jerusalem. Hugo we saw your
who is in Jerusalem. Hugo we saw your report and you said it is not clear what
report and you said it is not clear what comes next. There is a 20point plan.
comes next. There is a 20point plan. Tony Blair's name um against that plan.
Tony Blair's name um against that plan. Obviously, a lot of um other players
Obviously, a lot of um other players have been involved in drawing that up.
have been involved in drawing that up. Is it clear that the US is going to help
Is it clear that the US is going to help drive that forward? That the president's
drive that forward? That the president's attention will stay focused on the next
attention will stay focused on the next few days and weeks.
Yeah, there's huge momentum here in these negotiations and President Trump
these negotiations and President Trump has been heavily involved uh in these uh
has been heavily involved uh in these uh efforts uh putting pressure not only on
efforts uh putting pressure not only on Hamas but also on the Israeli Prime
Hamas but also on the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. So what's
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. So what's been agreed here uh you may say was the
been agreed here uh you may say was the easiest part of this 20point plan, the
easiest part of this 20point plan, the release of the hostages and a ceasefire
release of the hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. But what happens next isn't
in Gaza. But what happens next isn't really clear. You know the uh details uh
really clear. You know the uh details uh you know we don't have the details. Uh
you know we don't have the details. Uh the plan is just uh you know a framework
the plan is just uh you know a framework of what has to be decided but we know
of what has to be decided but we know that these major obstacles remain. The
that these major obstacles remain. The key Israeli demand for Hamas to disarm
key Israeli demand for Hamas to disarm which has been rejected by Hamas so far.
which has been rejected by Hamas so far. Uh the extent of the withdrawal of
Uh the extent of the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Hamas is demanding a
Israeli troops. Hamas is demanding a full uh withdrawal of Israeli troops
full uh withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. And obviously uh the question
from Gaza. And obviously uh the question over what happens with Gaza next? Who is
over what happens with Gaza next? Who is going to govern Gaza? Will Hamas have
going to govern Gaza? Will Hamas have any kind of role to play in a post-war
any kind of role to play in a post-war Gaza? These are very difficult points
Gaza? These are very difficult points and there has been no indication, no
and there has been no indication, no suggestion over how these negotiations
suggestion over how these negotiations are going to unfold and how these major
are going to unfold and how these major uh gaps, how the negotiations are going
uh gaps, how the negotiations are going to be able to bridge those major gaps
to be able to bridge those major gaps between Israel and Hamas. and Nami Rick
between Israel and Hamas. and Nami Rick Bal um in terms of the uh the wider
Bal um in terms of the uh the wider backdrop to today that we've also been
backdrop to today that we've also been covering the Nobel Peace Prize is
covering the Nobel Peace Prize is something that Donald Trump publicly
something that Donald Trump publicly mentioned at so many of his news
mentioned at so many of his news conferences repeatedly in recent weeks.
conferences repeatedly in recent weeks. He didn't win and there has been a
He didn't win and there has been a reaction today on that.
reaction today on that. >> Yeah, the White House isn't happy about
>> Yeah, the White House isn't happy about it, accusing the committee of putting
it, accusing the committee of putting politics over peace. But look, there was
politics over peace. But look, there was no real question that Donald Trump was
no real question that Donald Trump was going to win it this year. I think there
going to win it this year. I think there are two things here. There is Donald
are two things here. There is Donald Trump's campaign to win the Nobel Peace
Trump's campaign to win the Nobel Peace Prize. And then there's the actual Nobel
Prize. And then there's the actual Nobel Peace Prize. And there's no doubt Mr.
Peace Prize. And there's no doubt Mr. Trump wants to win it. Uh he's been
Trump wants to win it. Uh he's been entered for it since 2018 over his
entered for it since 2018 over his Abraham Accords. That's the policy to
Abraham Accords. That's the policy to try and get Arab nations to recognize
try and get Arab nations to recognize Israel. Uh but the committee had
Israel. Uh but the committee had probably already made their minds up.
probably already made their minds up. and also the ceasefire in the Middle
and also the ceasefire in the Middle East hasn't endured yet. We we have yet
East hasn't endured yet. We we have yet to see the results of it. Uh so I don't
to see the results of it. Uh so I don't think he was going to win today, but I'm
think he was going to win today, but I'm pretty sure that there's maybe a chance
pretty sure that there's maybe a chance next year. I'm sure I'm sure that the
next year. I'm sure I'm sure that the White House will be hoping that will be
White House will be hoping that will be the case. and and and just very quickly
the case. and and and just very quickly I mean there was the timing of the
I mean there was the timing of the ceasefire that we are seeing and the and
ceasefire that we are seeing and the and the Nobel award obviously it felt like
the Nobel award obviously it felt like that was partly a spur obviously we've
that was partly a spur obviously we've had the two-year anniversary of October
had the two-year anniversary of October the 7th too so it's it's been it's been
the 7th too so it's it's been it's been a really remarkable few days hasn't it
a really remarkable few days hasn't it >> is I mean it you know there is there are
>> is I mean it you know there is there are some conspiracies that this all kind of
some conspiracies that this all kind of the stars have aligned in some respects
the stars have aligned in some respects I guess yes of course um and you know
I guess yes of course um and you know this deal has come pretty quickly in
this deal has come pretty quickly in some ways. We know that Donald Trump had
some ways. We know that Donald Trump had been pushing for it for a long time, but
been pushing for it for a long time, but uh it it has all happened very quickly,
uh it it has all happened very quickly, but there's still a long way to go. And
but there's still a long way to go. And um you know, there are plenty of people,
um you know, there are plenty of people, Donald Trump supporters, his
Donald Trump supporters, his administration, who want him to win this
administration, who want him to win this prize, saying that there are presidents
prize, saying that there are presidents before in their view, who have won it
before in their view, who have won it for less. But there are also the critics
for less. But there are also the critics of President Trump who will say, "Well,
of President Trump who will say, "Well, hang on a minute. There's a lot going on
hang on a minute. There's a lot going on here in the US in which they consider
here in the US in which they consider Donald Trump um is um attacking America
Donald Trump um is um attacking America and so he doesn't deserve the peace
and so he doesn't deserve the peace prize. So as you can imagine G it's all
prize. So as you can imagine G it's all very divisive. Nombal good to speak to
very divisive. Nombal good to speak to you Hugo Bacha thank you both very much
you Hugo Bacha thank you both very much indeed there Hugo in Jerusalem. We'll be
indeed there Hugo in Jerusalem. We'll be back across in the region in the coming
back across in the region in the coming moments. We're going to take a quick
moments. We're going to take a quick break around the world and across the
break around the world and across the UK. This is BBC News.
Let's get more now in developments in the Middle East and the view from inside
the Middle East and the view from inside Gaza. Our chief international
Gaza. Our chief international correspondent Lee Ducet is in the
correspondent Lee Ducet is in the region. She spoke to Tess Ingram from
region. She spoke to Tess Ingram from UNICEF who is currently working in
UNICEF who is currently working in Alawasi and she began by asking her to
Alawasi and she began by asking her to describe some of the conditions that
describe some of the conditions that Tess and her team are now finding.
Tess and her team are now finding. incredibly crowded conditions. There are
incredibly crowded conditions. There are so many people that have been displaced
so many people that have been displaced here over the last few weeks, living in
here over the last few weeks, living in really, really difficult conditions.
really, really difficult conditions. Lack of shelter, people under pieces of
Lack of shelter, people under pieces of tarpolan with very little to keep them
tarpolan with very little to keep them warm as winter approaches, children
warm as winter approaches, children walking through broken rubble without
walking through broken rubble without shoes, insufficient access to food and
shoes, insufficient access to food and water. And throughout all of that,
water. And throughout all of that, UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But
UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But like it has been throughout this
like it has been throughout this conflict, we've been restricted in what
conflict, we've been restricted in what we can bring in and and what areas we
we can bring in and and what areas we have access to. So we are pleased. We
have access to. So we are pleased. We really welcome this news of the
really welcome this news of the ceasefire and we hope that it will lead
ceasefire and we hope that it will lead to a scaling up of aid to help address
to a scaling up of aid to help address conditions here in Almoasi but across
conditions here in Almoasi but across the Gaza Strip.
the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing, Tess, that people
And are you seeing, Tess, that people are starting to move uh to go back to
are starting to move uh to go back to their homes if indeed they can along the
their homes if indeed they can along the lines permitted by the new Israeli
lines permitted by the new Israeli deployment lines.
deployment lines. There's a lot of excitement but also
There's a lot of excitement but also apprehension. People make wanting to
apprehension. People make wanting to make sure that they're going to be safe
make sure that they're going to be safe if they do move. But of course already
if they do move. But of course already beginning to pack up their belongings
beginning to pack up their belongings because as people told me when I was
because as people told me when I was here during the February ceasefire and
here during the February ceasefire and again now home is home and they want to
again now home is home and they want to go back to their communities and their
go back to their communities and their lands even if it has been reduced to
lands even if it has been reduced to rubble. But what is then critical is
rubble. But what is then critical is that the humanitarian response is there
that the humanitarian response is there for them, providing them with that
for them, providing them with that shelter, with a tent, with access to
shelter, with a tent, with access to safe drinking water, with those shoes
safe drinking water, with those shoes for their children. And that's going to
for their children. And that's going to be our focus in the coming days is to
be our focus in the coming days is to follow the thousands of people as they
follow the thousands of people as they move back to their communities.
And do you have any sense as to how quickly the humanitarian aspect of this
quickly the humanitarian aspect of this new deal is going to come into force?
new deal is going to come into force? You may remember that um in the
You may remember that um in the ceasefire in January, the gates opened
ceasefire in January, the gates opened quite quickly and uh within no time at
quite quickly and uh within no time at all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling
all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling across the border. What's your sense
across the border. What's your sense this time?
this time? >> We're really hoping for the same based
>> We're really hoping for the same based on our understanding of of what has been
on our understanding of of what has been negotiated in this plan and presented by
negotiated in this plan and presented by the mediators. The UN is going to be at
the mediators. The UN is going to be at the heart of this humanitarian response.
the heart of this humanitarian response. And that's what we're being uh that's
And that's what we're being uh that's what we're working around is is to have
what we're working around is is to have the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300
the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300 trucks pre-positioned outside of the
trucks pre-positioned outside of the Gaza Strip ready to scale up our
Gaza Strip ready to scale up our response. We have had trucks come in
response. We have had trucks come in yesterday and today, but we need to see
yesterday and today, but we need to see that increase, as you say, happen very
that increase, as you say, happen very quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the
quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the next day, we can see that scale up
next day, we can see that scale up meaningfully because the stakes here are
meaningfully because the stakes here are really high. We're talking about
really high. We're talking about childrens whose immune systems have been
childrens whose immune systems have been shattered, children who have gone years
shattered, children who have gone years without access to nutritious food. Um
without access to nutritious food. Um and of course with winter approaching
and of course with winter approaching that diseases will spread. Uh so that
that diseases will spread. Uh so that scale up is is incredibly time critical
scale up is is incredibly time critical or we risk seeing continued children
or we risk seeing continued children dying from the humanitarian crisis on
dying from the humanitarian crisis on the ground.
the ground. >> Tess Ingram. Stay with us here on BBC
>> Tess Ingram. Stay with us here on BBC News. I'm Gita Gurui.
Hello, you're with BBC News Live. I'm Katherine Bhanga and we're bringing you
Katherine Bhanga and we're bringing you continuous coverage of developments in
continuous coverage of developments in the Middle East where a fresh ceasefire
the Middle East where a fresh ceasefire between Hamas and Israel has began. Uh
between Hamas and Israel has began. Uh we're monitoring these live pictures we
we're monitoring these live pictures we have coming in from the Gaza Strip. Uh
have coming in from the Gaza Strip. Uh this is the one of the main roads that
this is the one of the main roads that connects the north of the territory to
connects the north of the territory to the south. It's right on the coast uh of
the south. It's right on the coast uh of the Mediterranean there. And for hours
the Mediterranean there. And for hours now, almost as soon as this ceasefire
now, almost as soon as this ceasefire began at midday local time, we saw
began at midday local time, we saw thousands of people making this journey
thousands of people making this journey from the south back to the north. You
from the south back to the north. You remember that in the past few weeks,
remember that in the past few weeks, Israel had concentrated its ground
Israel had concentrated its ground offensive on Gaza City in the north of
offensive on Gaza City in the north of the territory and it had demanded that
the territory and it had demanded that people residents in that part of the
people residents in that part of the territory leave and move further south
territory leave and move further south to areas it had said were safer. But now
to areas it had said were safer. But now with a new opportunity to be able to
with a new opportunity to be able to return home,
return home, gardens are taking the opportunity to do
gardens are taking the opportunity to do just that. And we've been hearing from
just that. And we've been hearing from some of the residents recounting their
some of the residents recounting their stories of what they found when they got
stories of what they found when they got back to some of their neighborhoods,
back to some of their neighborhoods, talking about their what were their
talking about their what were their homes having been flattened. They talked
homes having been flattened. They talked about their areas not being recognizable
about their areas not being recognizable anymore.
anymore. But all of this is possible because
But all of this is possible because Israeli troops have pulled out of parts
Israeli troops have pulled out of parts of the territory. They're still
of the territory. They're still maintaining control of more than 50% of
maintaining control of more than 50% of Gaza, around 53%, but they've pulled
Gaza, around 53%, but they've pulled back to the agreed lines between Hamas
back to the agreed lines between Hamas and Israel. But crucially now a lot of
and Israel. But crucially now a lot of attention is going to be paid towards to
attention is going to be paid towards to the release of all Israeli hostages as
the release of all Israeli hostages as well as um as well as the remains of
well as um as well as the remains of those who have deceased. There's also
those who have deceased. There's also going to be attention being paid to the
going to be attention being paid to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. As we
humanitarian situation in Gaza. As we can see from the images we're looking at
can see from the images we're looking at now, much of the strip has been
now, much of the strip has been devastated by Israeli attacks. And
devastated by Israeli attacks. And crucially, there's very little aid
crucially, there's very little aid that's getting in there, whether that's
that's getting in there, whether that's food, medicine. Um Tom Flesher is the UN
food, medicine. Um Tom Flesher is the UN under secretary general for humanitarian
under secretary general for humanitarian affairs and the emergency relief
affairs and the emergency relief coordinator. He's been speaking to my
coordinator. He's been speaking to my colleague Amal Rajan from BBC Radio 4's
colleague Amal Rajan from BBC Radio 4's Today program to discuss the UN's plans
Today program to discuss the UN's plans for the coming weeks and months to get
for the coming weeks and months to get aid into Gaza.
aid into Gaza. >> I'm in very close touch with our teams
>> I'm in very close touch with our teams inside Gaza, but also with survivors in
inside Gaza, but also with survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza
Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza as well. They have long waited and hoped
as well. They have long waited and hoped for this moment and we've worked hard to
for this moment and we've worked hard to get here. It must not be a full storm.
get here. It must not be a full storm. We need to ensure that President Trump's
We need to ensure that President Trump's plan isn't blocked by hardliners on
plan isn't blocked by hardliners on either side. We're hearing there have
either side. We're hearing there have been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy
been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was reporting that about an hour
Bowen was reporting that about an hour ago as well. Today is crucial. We need
ago as well. Today is crucial. We need the guns to go silent and we need the
the guns to go silent and we need the ceasefire to be implemented.
ceasefire to be implemented. >> And as far as you understand, Tom, who
>> And as far as you understand, Tom, who is now responsible for aid in Gaza.
is now responsible for aid in Gaza. >> So the UN has a plan. There's been
>> So the UN has a plan. There's been unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of thousands killed, including over 18,000
thousands killed, including over 18,000 children. And that's a child killed on
children. And that's a child killed on average every hour for 2 years. And this
average every hour for 2 years. And this agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the real breakthrough will be when the
real breakthrough will be when the hostages are home, when children are
hostages are home, when children are fed, when they can sleep without terror
fed, when they can sleep without terror under a roof, when they're not bombed
under a roof, when they're not bombed and maimed, when they can be operated on
and maimed, when they can be operated on with anesthetics, when they can go back
with anesthetics, when they can go back to school, when families are reunited
to school, when families are reunited again. And so we will deliver that plan.
again. And so we will deliver that plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid
We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We
in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We have fought and beaten famines before
have fought and beaten famines before and we will do it again this time.
and we will do it again this time. >> Very very keen to talk to you about the
>> Very very keen to talk to you about the specifics of that plan in just a moment.
specifics of that plan in just a moment. But I've got one other practical
But I've got one other practical question if I may before we get there
question if I may before we get there which is how confident are you that the
which is how confident are you that the restrictions previously placed on aid
restrictions previously placed on aid deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries by Israel who say that those deliveries have been hijacked or
deliveries have been hijacked or vandalized that those restrictions will
vandalized that those restrictions will now be lifted.
now be lifted. So that's the big question for the
So that's the big question for the coming hours and days. And obviously
coming hours and days. And obviously we're in very close touch with the
we're in very close touch with the Israeli authorities uh in country to
Israeli authorities uh in country to make sure that those impediments, those
make sure that those impediments, those obstacles are now removed. We need all
obstacles are now removed. We need all the crossings open. We need safe routes
the crossings open. We need safe routes for our convoys. We need our people
for our convoys. We need our people protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues have been killed in the last two years.
have been killed in the last two years. We need the removal of red tape and
We need the removal of red tape and physical barriers. We need the power
physical barriers. We need the power back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals, our water stations. It's a massive
our water stations. It's a massive massive job ahead. We need access for
massive job ahead. We need access for our NGO colleagues and partners as well.
our NGO colleagues and partners as well. And as you say, we need the
And as you say, we need the international media to get back in and
international media to get back in and tell the world what is happening and
tell the world what is happening and hold us to account for saving lives.
hold us to account for saving lives. >> Well, let's go through some of your
>> Well, let's go through some of your plans for the coming uh weeks and
plans for the coming uh weeks and months. Then let's do this in stages if
months. Then let's do this in stages if we can. First of all, we'll get to uh
we can. First of all, we'll get to uh the health system which has been
the health system which has been decimated and water and sanitation. But
decimated and water and sanitation. But first of all, just on food, uh I think
first of all, just on food, uh I think your understanding, if I'm correct me if
your understanding, if I'm correct me if I'm wrong, but that there is now uh
I'm wrong, but that there is now uh significant famine and acute
significant famine and acute malnutrition across the 2.1 million
malnutrition across the 2.1 million people of Gaza. What are your plans for
people of Gaza. What are your plans for increasing food deliveries immediately?
increasing food deliveries immediately? >> So that's objective number one. We've
>> So that's objective number one. We've got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've got to get hundreds of truckloads
got to get hundreds of truckloads convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with food and generosity and aid and help
food and generosity and aid and help right now. We need to get food to 2
right now. We need to get food to 2 million people across the strip in every
million people across the strip in every part of Gaza, north and south. And we
part of Gaza, north and south. And we have those supplies pre-positioned.
have those supplies pre-positioned. We've got 172,000 metric tons of food,
We've got 172,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at the crossings. The trucks are ready to
the crossings. The trucks are ready to roll. And we'll use our community
roll. And we'll use our community networks, our expertise, our experience
networks, our expertise, our experience to get that food where it is most
to get that food where it is most needed. What are your plans when it
needed. What are your plans when it comes to the health system?
comes to the health system? >> It's a massive massive challenge. I I
>> It's a massive massive challenge. I I saw for myself when I visited in in
saw for myself when I visited in in January the scale of destruction of the
January the scale of destruction of the hospitals and of the medical sector. And
hospitals and of the medical sector. And of course, it's got even worse uh since
of course, it's got even worse uh since then. So, we've got to rebuild those
then. So, we've got to rebuild those hospitals. We've got to get the
hospitals. We've got to get the essential anesthetics in painkillers in.
essential anesthetics in painkillers in. We've got to ensure that full medical
We've got to ensure that full medical supplies are flowing, but also medical
supplies are flowing, but also medical expertise because many of those working
expertise because many of those working nurses and doctors in that sector have
nurses and doctors in that sector have also been killed. It's a massive,
also been killed. It's a massive, massive task ahead that has to run
massive task ahead that has to run alongside that effort to feed everyone
alongside that effort to feed everyone in Gaza.
in Gaza. >> And presumably one of the most urgent
>> And presumably one of the most urgent tasks concerns water and sanitation.
tasks concerns water and sanitation. >> We need to get water to 1.4 million
>> We need to get water to 1.4 million people as part of this plan. We also
people as part of this plan. We also need to help people prepare for the
need to help people prepare for the winter ahead. It's getting much colder
winter ahead. It's getting much colder already. And so we're looking to get
already. And so we're looking to get thousands of tents into Gaza in the
thousands of tents into Gaza in the coming days and weeks to give them that
coming days and weeks to give them that shelter, but also to give them the means
shelter, but also to give them the means to start to go rebuild their lives. We
to start to go rebuild their lives. We also want to get the kids back to
also want to get the kids back to school. So we have a plan to get 700,000
school. So we have a plan to get 700,000 school age kids back into temporary
school age kids back into temporary classrooms at least and supplied with
classrooms at least and supplied with the the books and the the pens and
the the books and the the pens and pencils to begin studying again. To what
pencils to begin studying again. To what extent can you just explain your the
extent can you just explain your the principles you apply to uh the extent to
principles you apply to uh the extent to which Tom you will work with Hamas who
which Tom you will work with Hamas who remain in place who've not been
remain in place who've not been completely uh disarmed to get that
completely uh disarmed to get that delivery to get those health services to
delivery to get those health services to get the water and sanitation through.
get the water and sanitation through. What's your principled position in terms
What's your principled position in terms of what you'll do with a group which
of what you'll do with a group which Israel says still needs to be disarmed
Israel says still needs to be disarmed urgently. So our major priority is to
urgently. So our major priority is to get that aid to civilians where it's
get that aid to civilians where it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as
most needed. And here in Gaza, as everywhere, we have to work in a
everywhere, we have to work in a neutral, impartial, independent,
neutral, impartial, independent, principled way. Now, everywhere we work,
principled way. Now, everywhere we work, and you know, I've been on the phone
and you know, I've been on the phone today to colleagues in Sudan who are
today to colleagues in Sudan who are getting past armed groups in Sudan. We
getting past armed groups in Sudan. We always have to negotiate access with
always have to negotiate access with whoever is on the ground, but we
whoever is on the ground, but we shouldn't have to ask to get to
shouldn't have to ask to get to civilians. will work with everyone we
civilians. will work with everyone we need to work with to get past the
need to work with to get past the blockages, whether those are on the
blockages, whether those are on the border or whether those are the armed
border or whether those are the armed groups inside Gaza, and reach the
groups inside Gaza, and reach the communities, the the moms and dads and
communities, the the moms and dads and kids, the families who need this support
kids, the families who need this support right now and can't wait.
right now and can't wait. >> This is obviously an extremely uh
>> This is obviously an extremely uh precarious uh fast changing situation.
precarious uh fast changing situation. We're very grateful for your time
We're very grateful for your time speaking to us, Tom. What's your biggest
speaking to us, Tom. What's your biggest concern about what could go wrong in the
concern about what could go wrong in the coming days?
coming days? >> So, so many things can go wrong. The
>> So, so many things can go wrong. The devil's in the detail of this. I I think
devil's in the detail of this. I I think President Trump deserves real credit for
President Trump deserves real credit for having got us to this point and having
having got us to this point and having set up this framework for a ceasefire
set up this framework for a ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we have to get
and potential peace. Now, we have to get the details right. We've got to move on
the details right. We've got to move on from this vicious cycle of of cruelty
from this vicious cycle of of cruelty and terror and revenge and complicity,
and terror and revenge and complicity, indifference and and inhumity. And then
indifference and and inhumity. And then we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that
we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that somehow start to rebuild trust and hope
somehow start to rebuild trust and hope between Israelis and Palestinians. And
between Israelis and Palestinians. And that's going to be a really really long
that's going to be a really really long hard process. We've got to rebuild
hard process. We've got to rebuild confidence in international law that's
confidence in international law that's been so corroded by this war. We've got
been so corroded by this war. We've got to have patience and we've got to have
to have patience and we've got to have massive generosity in the time ahead.
massive generosity in the time ahead. And I hope that people who've been moved
And I hope that people who've been moved by what they've seen in Gaza will now be
by what they've seen in Gaza will now be moved to be generous. We're only 25%
moved to be generous. We're only 25% funded on our appeal. So please, you
funded on our appeal. So please, you know, pick up the phone, get online,
know, pick up the phone, get online, visit crisisreief.un.org,
visit crisisreief.un.org, call your
and let's flood Gaza with aid. >> And that was the UN's humanitarian chief
>> And that was the UN's humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher. It's just gone 3:38 p.m.
Tom Fletcher. It's just gone 3:38 p.m. in Gaza and in Israel. And this is the
in Gaza and in Israel. And this is the day that uh a new ceasefire has began.
day that uh a new ceasefire has began. It began uh just uh a few hours ago, 3
It began uh just uh a few hours ago, 3 hours ago. And it began with the
hours ago. And it began with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from some
withdrawal of Israeli forces from some parts of Gaza to a yellow line. And we
parts of Gaza to a yellow line. And we had this confirmation um around noon
had this confirmation um around noon Gaza and Israel time. And that was the
Gaza and Israel time. And that was the statement from the Israeli Israel
statement from the Israeli Israel Defense Forces. Um, and we've also had
Defense Forces. Um, and we've also had confirmation coming in from the United
confirmation coming in from the United States special envoy Steve Witkov
States special envoy Steve Witkov confirming that news, adding that the
confirming that news, adding that the 72-hour period to release the hostages
72-hour period to release the hostages from Gaza had begun. The BBC has been
from Gaza had begun. The BBC has been hearing from Peter Lerner. He's a
hearing from Peter Lerner. He's a retired IDF spokesperson and general. He
retired IDF spokesperson and general. He said the role of the IDF has changed and
said the role of the IDF has changed and the war is over.
the war is over. >> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that
>> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that the Israeli society has been um uh based
the Israeli society has been um uh based on all of the polls uh waiting for this
on all of the polls uh waiting for this moment to see a realization of a deal.
moment to see a realization of a deal. It was President Trump that was able to
It was President Trump that was able to realize that deal. And this morning what
realize that deal. And this morning what we've seen in the earlier today uh is
we've seen in the earlier today uh is the redeployment of the military forces
the redeployment of the military forces to the yellow line which is something we
to the yellow line which is something we have to get used to saying um into a new
have to get used to saying um into a new reality I would say defensive but it
reality I would say defensive but it won't be a passive line of defense. You
won't be a passive line of defense. You know if there are Hamas terrorists that
know if there are Hamas terrorists that we've seen in the last few days trying
we've seen in the last few days trying to um have a go at at the Israeli
to um have a go at at the Israeli military across the different positions
military across the different positions within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will
within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will see more of these types of actions in
see more of these types of actions in the coming days as well. So they will be
the coming days as well. So they will be defending, they will be on the line, but
defending, they will be on the line, but I think that all eyes will be indeed
I think that all eyes will be indeed until uh pointed to Monday, Monday
until uh pointed to Monday, Monday morning, Monday afternoon to see the
morning, Monday afternoon to see the hostages come home, to see President
hostages come home, to see President Trump's visit and to see the realization
Trump's visit and to see the realization of the hostage release and advance. And
of the hostage release and advance. And there I would say these types of things
there I would say these types of things if they actually do develop positively
if they actually do develop positively they can be confidence building measures
they can be confidence building measures in the advance of the entire process.
in the advance of the entire process. >> Um one of the war aims of course was the
>> Um one of the war aims of course was the release of the hostages. Another was to
release of the hostages. Another was to destroy Hamas and arguably a disarmed
destroy Hamas and arguably a disarmed Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will
Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will be questions to come about the nature of
be questions to come about the nature of that disarmament. Heavy weapons versus
that disarmament. Heavy weapons versus light weapons quite what it actually
light weapons quite what it actually means. Are you clear as to what
means. Are you clear as to what disarmament means?
disarmament means? >> So I think that the the military goals
>> So I think that the the military goals were a very very clear goal that Hamas
were a very very clear goal that Hamas no longer poses a threat to Israel, a
no longer poses a threat to Israel, a threat like October 7th. And I I was
threat like October 7th. And I I was listening just before we came on to the
listening just before we came on to the words of Brigadier General Effie Dein,
words of Brigadier General Effie Dein, the IDF spokesperson today, and he was
the IDF spokesperson today, and he was very very clear that that threat that
very very clear that that threat that existed on October 7th absolutely does
existed on October 7th absolutely does not exist today. Of course, Hamas still
not exist today. Of course, Hamas still have weapons, still have capabilities,
have weapons, still have capabilities, but they're extremely diminished
but they're extremely diminished compared to what we've endured over the
compared to what we've endured over the last two years. So, I would say moving
last two years. So, I would say moving forward, we need to m maintain that at
forward, we need to m maintain that at least the level of Hamas does not
least the level of Hamas does not increase. Um, and I would say we need to
increase. Um, and I would say we need to push forward and implement the agreement
push forward and implement the agreement to make sure that Hamas does not have a
to make sure that Hamas does not have a role in rebuilding Gaza because we've
role in rebuilding Gaza because we've seen what they've done with the power of
seen what they've done with the power of governance. They build a military, they
governance. They build a military, they build a terrorist army, and they came
build a terrorist army, and they came into into the Israeli communities in
into into the Israeli communities in October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that
October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that the the most um moving uh moments over
the the most um moving uh moments over the last couple of days were the very
the last couple of days were the very very low lows of the memorial, the
very low lows of the memorial, the anniversary of October 7th just a few
anniversary of October 7th just a few days ago. And then the immediate flick
days ago. And then the immediate flick over the anticipation, the jubilation of
over the anticipation, the jubilation of the expectations of the deal being
the expectations of the deal being realized and for the hostages to come
realized and for the hostages to come home. So, I think Israelis over the next
home. So, I think Israelis over the next few days are going to be glued to their
few days are going to be glued to their TV sets. They're going to be
TV sets. They're going to be hyperconnected to what's going on and
hyperconnected to what's going on and all eyes will be on who are the
all eyes will be on who are the terrorists that going to be released in
terrorists that going to be released in in um instead of the hostages being uh
in um instead of the hostages being uh released. How is the security indeed
released. How is the security indeed going to be realized? How are we going
going to be realized? How are we going to make sure that we can actually move
to make sure that we can actually move forward into a more safe, secure reality
forward into a more safe, secure reality for Israelis and Palestinians alike?
You're with BBC News Live. We bring you continued coverage uh of events in the
continued coverage uh of events in the Middle East. A new ceasefire has been
Middle East. A new ceasefire has been agreed between Israel and Hamas and it
agreed between Israel and Hamas and it is now underway. Today is the first day
is now underway. Today is the first day of that ceasefire. We're monitoring
of that ceasefire. We're monitoring images coming into us from central Gaza.
images coming into us from central Gaza. One of the things that's really unfolded
One of the things that's really unfolded over the last few hours is that
over the last few hours is that thousands of Gazans who'd fled to the
thousands of Gazans who'd fled to the south of the territory have now started
south of the territory have now started making their way back north to Gaza
making their way back north to Gaza City. This is one of the areas that uh
City. This is one of the areas that uh Israeli forces have withdrawn from,
Israeli forces have withdrawn from, allowing residents to be able to go back
allowing residents to be able to go back to what remains of their home. Some of
to what remains of their home. Some of them have been told that their homes
them have been told that their homes have been completely destroyed um as a
have been completely destroyed um as a result of the ongoing conflict. Thoughts
result of the ongoing conflict. Thoughts also turn to the humanitarian situation,
also turn to the humanitarian situation, the need to get food into the territory
the need to get food into the territory and the long-term picture, the long-term
and the long-term picture, the long-term goal would be the reconstruction of
goal would be the reconstruction of Gaza. Our chief international
Gaza. Our chief international correspondent Lee Det has been speaking
correspondent Lee Det has been speaking to Ibrahim Iseta, a Palestinian man who
to Ibrahim Iseta, a Palestinian man who escaped Gaza for his daughter to have
escaped Gaza for his daughter to have specialized medical care. His brother
specialized medical care. His brother and family still remain in Alawasi.
and family still remain in Alawasi. >> They are still under the trauma. They
>> They are still under the trauma. They couldn't believe we have reached to this
couldn't believe we have reached to this moment. Uh this moment it's been delayed
moment. Uh this moment it's been delayed for two years. Been waiting this moment
for two years. Been waiting this moment for two years. Uh I was my families. I
for two years. Uh I was my families. I was specifically yesterday
was specifically yesterday [Music]
[Music] under a very uh hard condition. I
under a very uh hard condition. I remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea
remember uh two weeks ago uh he flea city under a heavy fire. After midnight
city under a heavy fire. After midnight he stay like all night try to follow up
he stay like all night try to follow up with him till he reach to and they stay
with him till he reach to and they stay in the street. So right now we are very
in the street. So right now we are very happy. Nobody care about what's the
happy. Nobody care about what's the condition whatever the circumstances but
condition whatever the circumstances but at least right now they can sleep safely
at least right now they can sleep safely after this uh devastating two years
>> and how hard will it be for your family if this ceasefire will help enormously
if this ceasefire will help enormously but as you know but I don't need to tell
but as you know but I don't need to tell you the level of destruction is also
you the level of destruction is also enormous it's going to continue to be a
enormous it's going to continue to be a huge challenge is it Not
huge challenge is it Not >> uh it's going to be difficult uh because
>> uh it's going to be difficult uh because we are specifically from Shaya
we are specifically from Shaya neighborhood. Uh right now since the
neighborhood. Uh right now since the morning they are saying that uh the
morning they are saying that uh the Israeli will not withdraw from uh our
Israeli will not withdraw from uh our neighborhood. So we are happy but at the
neighborhood. So we are happy but at the same time we are devastating about uh
same time we are devastating about uh okay this is a ceasefire but where
okay this is a ceasefire but where what's the future when we can put back
what's the future when we can put back to our land at least because our home
to our land at least because our home was at the beginning at the first phase
was at the beginning at the first phase of the at the first ceasefire it was
of the at the first ceasefire it was part partly destroyed right now it's
part partly destroyed right now it's completely destroyed uh so like we were
completely destroyed uh so like we were like spoken about when we put back then
like spoken about when we put back then like uh some people say that our home is
like uh some people say that our home is completely destroyed Then right now the
completely destroyed Then right now the news came that we he not be able to back
news came that we he not be able to back our houses. Uh so this like uh indeed we
our houses. Uh so this like uh indeed we are happy it's over but still like
are happy it's over but still like what's the future? What's coming next?
what's the future? What's coming next? We have no idea when we put back because
We have no idea when we put back because right now I was spoken with him. I was
right now I was spoken with him. I was talking with my sister too when you will
talking with my sister too when you will back they say that we couldn't because
back they say that we couldn't because they say that it's very tanks it's in
they say that it's very tanks it's in our neighborhood and at the at this
our neighborhood and at the at this stage they will not but at least they
stage they will not but at least they they will be sleep normal like any other
they will be sleep normal like any other people like any other people around the
people like any other people around the world without like in which way I'm
world without like in which way I'm going to die I'm going to stay alive
going to die I'm going to stay alive tomorrow or I'm going to lose someone
tomorrow or I'm going to lose someone else at least now they have this sense
else at least now they have this sense to sleep well like any other people the
to sleep well like any other people the rest of the world
>> and that was uh Ibraim is better speaking to our chief international
speaking to our chief international correspondent Lee Deet and uh Ibrahim's
correspondent Lee Deet and uh Ibrahim's family his brother remain in al-mawasi
family his brother remain in al-mawasi so Alma was an area in the s south of
so Alma was an area in the s south of the territory in the far south of Gaza
the territory in the far south of Gaza this was a part of the territory that
this was a part of the territory that Israel had demarcated as a humanitarian
Israel had demarcated as a humanitarian zone a safe zone during During different
zone a safe zone during During different periods of the conflict, it urged the
periods of the conflict, it urged the residents of Gaza to head to Al-Moasi
residents of Gaza to head to Al-Moasi where they'll be able to find shelter
where they'll be able to find shelter and food. But aid organizations had
and food. But aid organizations had continuously warned that there just
continuously warned that there just wasn't enough. There weren't enough
wasn't enough. There weren't enough resources there for gardens. They talked
resources there for gardens. They talked about the tough squalid conditions with
about the tough squalid conditions with people living in tents there with people
people living in tents there with people not able to access proper water and wash
not able to access proper water and wash facilities.
facilities. Earlier my colleague Lee Lee Detert
Earlier my colleague Lee Lee Detert spoke to Tess Ingram from UNICEF who's
spoke to Tess Ingram from UNICEF who's in Alma in southern Gaza and spoke to
in Alma in southern Gaza and spoke to about the current working conditions
about the current working conditions there.
there. >> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are
>> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are so many people that have been displaced
so many people that have been displaced here over the last few weeks, living in
here over the last few weeks, living in really, really difficult conditions.
really, really difficult conditions. Lack of shelter, people under pieces of
Lack of shelter, people under pieces of tarpolan with very little to keep them
tarpolan with very little to keep them warm as winter approaches, children
warm as winter approaches, children walking through broken rubble without
walking through broken rubble without shoes, insufficient access to food and
shoes, insufficient access to food and water. And throughout all of that,
water. And throughout all of that, UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But
UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But like it has been throughout this
like it has been throughout this conflict, we've been restricted in what
conflict, we've been restricted in what we can bring in and and what areas we
we can bring in and and what areas we have access to. So we are pleased. We
have access to. So we are pleased. We really welcome this news of the
really welcome this news of the ceasefire and we hope that it will lead
ceasefire and we hope that it will lead to a scaling up of aid to help address
to a scaling up of aid to help address conditions here in Almoasi but across
conditions here in Almoasi but across the Gaza Strip.
the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing Tess that people are
And are you seeing Tess that people are starting to move to go back to their
starting to move to go back to their homes if indeed they can along the lines
homes if indeed they can along the lines permitted by the new Israeli deployment
permitted by the new Israeli deployment lines.
lines. There's a lot of excitement, but also
There's a lot of excitement, but also apprehension about that move around
apprehension about that move around people make wanting to make sure that
people make wanting to make sure that they're going to be safe if they do
they're going to be safe if they do move. But of course, already beginning
move. But of course, already beginning to pack up their belongings because as
to pack up their belongings because as people told me when I was here during
people told me when I was here during the February ceasefire and again now
the February ceasefire and again now home is home and they want to go back to
home is home and they want to go back to their communities and their lands even
their communities and their lands even if it has been reduced to rubble. But
if it has been reduced to rubble. But what is then critical is that the
what is then critical is that the humanitarian response is there for them,
humanitarian response is there for them, providing them with that shelter, with a
providing them with that shelter, with a tent, with access to safe drinking
tent, with access to safe drinking water, with those shoes for their
water, with those shoes for their children. And that's going to be our
children. And that's going to be our focus in the coming days is to follow
focus in the coming days is to follow the thousands of people as they move
the thousands of people as they move back to their communities.
And do you have any sense as to how quickly the humanitarian aspect of this
quickly the humanitarian aspect of this new deal is going to come into force?
new deal is going to come into force? You may remember that um in the
You may remember that um in the ceasefire in January, the gates opened
ceasefire in January, the gates opened quite quickly and uh within no time at
quite quickly and uh within no time at all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling
all, hundreds of trucks were rumbling across the border. What's your sense
across the border. What's your sense this time?
this time? >> We're really hoping for the same based
>> We're really hoping for the same based on our understanding of of what has been
on our understanding of of what has been negotiated in this plan and presented by
negotiated in this plan and presented by the mediators. The UN is going to be at
the mediators. The UN is going to be at the heart of this humanitarian response.
the heart of this humanitarian response. And that's what we're being uh that's
And that's what we're being uh that's what we're working around is is to have
what we're working around is is to have the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300
the trucks ready to go. UNICEF has 1,300 trucks pre-positioned outside of the
trucks pre-positioned outside of the Gaza Strip ready to scale up our
Gaza Strip ready to scale up our response. We have had trucks come in
response. We have had trucks come in yesterday and today. But we need to see
yesterday and today. But we need to see that increase as you say happen very
that increase as you say happen very quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the
quickly. Um hopefully tomorrow or the next day we can see that scale up
next day we can see that scale up meaningfully because the stakes here are
meaningfully because the stakes here are really high. We're talking about
really high. We're talking about childrens whose immune systems have been
childrens whose immune systems have been shattered. Children who have gone years
shattered. Children who have gone years without access to nutritious food. Um
without access to nutritious food. Um and of course with winter approaching
and of course with winter approaching that diseases will spread. Uh so that
that diseases will spread. Uh so that scale up is is incredibly time critical
scale up is is incredibly time critical or we risk seeing continued children
or we risk seeing continued children dying from the humanitarian crisis on
dying from the humanitarian crisis on the ground.
the ground. >> Yes, of course it will be the immediate
>> Yes, of course it will be the immediate needs as you've been mentioning that
needs as you've been mentioning that have to be met first. But uh I suppose
have to be met first. But uh I suppose if if this calm holds, you perhaps can
if if this calm holds, you perhaps can begin to try to ease the trauma that all
begin to try to ease the trauma that all of the children of Gaza have experienced
of the children of Gaza have experienced and really cannot be cannot start to
and really cannot be cannot start to heal unless the bombing start stops
heal unless the bombing start stops unless that sound of the drone in the
unless that sound of the drone in the air goes away.
air goes away. >> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still
>> Yeah, that's exactly right. I can still hear the drones now. For so for
hear the drones now. For so for children, the sound of a ceasefire, the
children, the sound of a ceasefire, the sound of peace hasn't come true yet. and
sound of peace hasn't come true yet. and and we do really need that in order to
and we do really need that in order to address the horrors that they've
address the horrors that they've experienced over more than two years
experienced over more than two years now. And I think it's important for us
now. And I think it's important for us to remember that in why this ceasefire
to remember that in why this ceasefire must be sustained, why it's so critical.
must be sustained, why it's so critical. Children have been disappointed before.
Children have been disappointed before. They've had a ceasefire be broken, fall
They've had a ceasefire be broken, fall away in front of them, and then endure
away in front of them, and then endure more months of of loss and of of trauma
more months of of loss and of of trauma and of fear. So if that happened again,
and of fear. So if that happened again, that would be devastating for the mental
that would be devastating for the mental health of children, all people in the
health of children, all people in the Gaza Strip. We need that piece and we
Gaza Strip. We need that piece and we need to be able to scale up that mental
need to be able to scale up that mental health response here for children in
health response here for children in Gaza to begin to address uh what they
Gaza to begin to address uh what they have endured. It's just as important as
have endured. It's just as important as the shelter, the food, and the education
the shelter, the food, and the education that we're going to provide to kids
that we're going to provide to kids here.
And that was Tess Ingram from UNICEF speaking to our chief international
speaking to our chief international correspondent Lee Det. As she was saying
correspondent Lee Det. As she was saying there, aid organizations like UNICEF are
there, aid organizations like UNICEF are hopeful that aid will be coming into
hopeful that aid will be coming into Gaza unrestricted. The expectation is
Gaza unrestricted. The expectation is that this will happen immediately after
that this will happen immediately after a ceasefire has begun but uh we don't
a ceasefire has begun but uh we don't know yet from our colleagues on the
know yet from our colleagues on the ground whether that is happening. We do
ground whether that is happening. We do know that yesterday when the
know that yesterday when the announcement about a possible ceasefire
announcement about a possible ceasefire was made that an agreement had been
was made that an agreement had been reached uh aid organizations had started
reached uh aid organizations had started moving uh trucks to the border with
moving uh trucks to the border with Gaza. But what we also know is that um
Gaza. But what we also know is that um hostages, all the remaining hostages
hostages, all the remaining hostages will be released from Gaza over the next
will be released from Gaza over the next 72 hours. Yehuda Cohen is the father of
72 hours. Yehuda Cohen is the father of Nimrod Cohen who was taken hostage by
Nimrod Cohen who was taken hostage by Hamas after October the 7th and is still
Hamas after October the 7th and is still being held in Gaza. He told the BBC
being held in Gaza. He told the BBC about how he felt about the efforts to
about how he felt about the efforts to bring him home.
bring him home. >> It's going to take a few days. As you
>> It's going to take a few days. As you said, ceasefire going to start 12:00
said, ceasefire going to start 12:00 local time. So, we're counting 72 hours,
local time. So, we're counting 72 hours, three days. And we know Hamas will uh
three days. And we know Hamas will uh push the limit. Let us uh stall another
push the limit. Let us uh stall another few days. But feelings are we are
few days. But feelings are we are getting finally to the end. Getting
getting finally to the end. Getting finally to the end. Uh yeah, thanks to
finally to the end. Uh yeah, thanks to President Donald Trump. He did it for
President Donald Trump. He did it for some other reason, but he did it at
some other reason, but he did it at last. forcing the to uh take the plan,
last. forcing the to uh take the plan, go to a ceasefire and release the
go to a ceasefire and release the Israelis, not the American, the Israeli
Israelis, not the American, the Israeli hostages, Israeli soldiers like my son.
hostages, Israeli soldiers like my son. So, we're looking forward mixed feelings
So, we're looking forward mixed feelings along with happiness is uh the moment we
along with happiness is uh the moment we will meet our son in what condition,
will meet our son in what condition, physically, mentally, psychologic
physically, mentally, psychologic condition we will meet him. what needs
condition we will meet him. what needs to be done to uh we had a bait team.
to be done to uh we had a bait team. It's going to take time and of course uh
It's going to take time and of course uh looking beyond beyond in road beyond our
looking beyond beyond in road beyond our family looking at our country there's a
family looking at our country there's a lot to do to uh fix our country got to
lot to do to uh fix our country got to start with this person called Netanyao
start with this person called Netanyao being dragged out of any power on uh
being dragged out of any power on uh Israel uh government or any decision.
Israel uh government or any decision. He's a danger to Israel. Well, it's not
He's a danger to Israel. Well, it's not just a warning. It's a fact. Uh he had
just a warning. It's a fact. Uh he had the one of the biggest contribution to
the one of the biggest contribution to the events of the 7th of October. This
the events of the 7th of October. This is the person and yeah, I'm
is the person and yeah, I'm concentrating on it, not only but we
concentrating on it, not only but we have to uh understand the source of the
have to uh understand the source of the problem. He is the one who made Hamas
problem. He is the one who made Hamas get the capabilities of launching this
get the capabilities of launching this heinous attack on the 7th of October. He
heinous attack on the 7th of October. He was the one that used this attack to
was the one that used this attack to prolong his position as a prime
prolong his position as a prime minister, conducting an endless war,
minister, conducting an endless war, sacrificing Israeli soldiers,
sacrificing Israeli soldiers, sacrificing hostages who who he is the
sacrificing hostages who who he is the one responsible for them being taken. At
one responsible for them being taken. At least 42 hostages were murdered during
least 42 hostages were murdered during captivity because of his uh uh position
captivity because of his uh uh position sustaining his position gains. So we
sustaining his position gains. So we have to remember that and we have to
have to remember that and we have to make sure this will never happen again.
make sure this will never happen again. >> Yeah.
>> Yeah. >> And as you know Yehuda he he constantly
>> And as you know Yehuda he he constantly said that he had two war aims. One was
said that he had two war aims. One was to destroy Hamas, the second was to
to destroy Hamas, the second was to bring the hostages home. He kept saying
bring the hostages home. He kept saying and for a while President Trump agreed
and for a while President Trump agreed with him that military pressure would
with him that military pressure would work. But do you think without this huge
work. But do you think without this huge intervention by President Trump uh this
intervention by President Trump uh this this day that you're now hope that
this day that you're now hope that you're now just waiting for would never
you're now just waiting for would never have happened?
have happened? >> Yeah. Absolutely. Yes. Because first of
>> Yeah. Absolutely. Yes. Because first of all regarding Nataniel's announcement
all regarding Nataniel's announcement and I always said that Netany be before
and I always said that Netany be before he opened his mouth is lying. Okay. His
he opened his mouth is lying. Okay. His target was his
target was his securing his position as a prime
securing his position as a prime minister, escaping his criminal trial
minister, escaping his criminal trial his own here in Israel. That's his only
his own here in Israel. That's his only purpose. And I'm saying it as one who
purpose. And I'm saying it as one who looked him in the eye and saw the lies
looked him in the eye and saw the lies behind his eyes. I was meeting him not
behind his eyes. I was meeting him not one one by one, but I was meeting him
one one by one, but I was meeting him several times. last time was about two
several times. last time was about two and a half months ago when he was in
and a half months ago when he was in Washington in a reception in the Blair
Washington in a reception in the Blair House promising us that the first thing
House promising us that the first thing we'll do after the partial deal which
we'll do after the partial deal which never came through we will talk about
never came through we will talk about releasing all the rest of the hostages
releasing all the rest of the hostages okay sitting in front of you and lying
okay sitting in front of you and lying brute force this is Netanyahu regarding
brute force this is Netanyahu regarding Trump and of course I can't say any bad
Trump and of course I can't say any bad word about Trump right now cuz he forced
word about Trump right now cuz he forced Netanyahu to go for the deal but we know
Netanyahu to go for the deal but we know Look that Trump was working from his own
Look that Trump was working from his own interest. We right now you know you you
interest. We right now you know you you you are going to get give the report of
you are going to get give the report of in one hour there going to be a decision
in one hour there going to be a decision who will get the Nobel Peace Prize and
who will get the Nobel Peace Prize and he's looking for that. It's not a a
he's looking for that. It's not a a coincidence that everything is closing
coincidence that everything is closing up towards the 10th of September. in
up towards the 10th of September. in that uh in that angle. We have to
that uh in that angle. We have to remember the pressure on Trump from Arab
remember the pressure on Trump from Arab countries especially after the stupid
countries especially after the stupid attack on DHA Netanyao conducted. We
attack on DHA Netanyao conducted. We have to remember uh the European
have to remember uh the European declaration including the UK, including
declaration including the UK, including Australia, Canada, France, etc.
Australia, Canada, France, etc. regarding recognition of Palestinian
regarding recognition of Palestinian state. This is a full collaboration with
state. This is a full collaboration with modern Arab countries that kind of
modern Arab countries that kind of closed everything that Trump has to
closed everything that Trump has to decide if he's uh only supporting
decide if he's uh only supporting Netanyahu not Israel only supporting
Netanyahu not Israel only supporting Netanyahu and going against the rest of
Netanyahu and going against the rest of the world and even uh you know inside US
the world and even uh you know inside US public opinion even the MAGA people the
public opinion even the MAGA people the clear Trump supporters were starting
clear Trump supporters were starting losing patient of how Netanyahu is kind
losing patient of how Netanyahu is kind of controlling Trump.
>> The thoughts there of Yehuda Cohen, father of Nimrod Cohen, who was taken
father of Nimrod Cohen, who was taken hostage by Hamas after October the 7th.
hostage by Hamas after October the 7th. He and 19 other hostages who are still
He and 19 other hostages who are still believed to be alive will be released
believed to be alive will be released according to the ceasefire agreement
according to the ceasefire agreement over the next 72 hours. So that means
over the next 72 hours. So that means according to the ceasefire agreement
according to the ceasefire agreement they uh Hamas has to release the
they uh Hamas has to release the hostages who are alive and those who are
hostages who are alive and those who are deceased their bodies by Monday
deceased their bodies by Monday afternoon. This is BBC News Live where
afternoon. This is BBC News Live where we continue to bring you continuous
we continue to bring you continuous coverage um of the ceasefire that's now
coverage um of the ceasefire that's now underway between Hamas and Israel. We
underway between Hamas and Israel. We continue to monitor the scenes from Gaza
continue to monitor the scenes from Gaza where thousands of displaced
where thousands of displaced Palestinians are beginning to travel
Palestinians are beginning to travel back to the north of Gaza after the
back to the north of Gaza after the ceasefire came into effect. We're just
ceasefire came into effect. We're just going to join our colleagues on the BBC
going to join our colleagues on the BBC News Channel shortly for continuous
News Channel shortly for continuous coverage of these events.
[Music] Hello, I'm Gita Goramouthi. This is BBC
Hello, I'm Gita Goramouthi. This is BBC News. The Israeli military has announced
News. The Israeli military has announced that the ceasefire in Gaza has now come
that the ceasefire in Gaza has now come into effect. We are seeing pictures from
into effect. We are seeing pictures from Gaza showing thousands of displaced
Gaza showing thousands of displaced Palestinians filing north towards Gaza
Palestinians filing north towards Gaza City, which until recent days was a
City, which until recent days was a scene of a major Israeli ground
scene of a major Israeli ground offensive and aerial bombardment. Israel
offensive and aerial bombardment. Israel says its forces have withdrawn to an
says its forces have withdrawn to an agreed line within Gaza. Hamas now has
agreed line within Gaza. Hamas now has until Monday morning to release all
until Monday morning to release all Israeli hostages, including 20 still
Israeli hostages, including 20 still believed to be alive and the bodies of
believed to be alive and the bodies of 28 others. Our Middle East correspondent
28 others. Our Middle East correspondent Hugo Bagga reports.
Hugo Bagga reports. By the road, they waited with a few
By the road, they waited with a few things that were now everything they
things that were now everything they had. Unsure if it was safe to return,
had. Unsure if it was safe to return, unsure if the bombs had stopped falling.
unsure if the bombs had stopped falling. The deal had brought them hope, but this
The deal had brought them hope, but this morning they still didn't know if had
morning they still didn't know if had finally brought them peace.
finally brought them peace. My son and I slept here last night on
My son and I slept here last night on the pavement in the cold, waiting to go
the pavement in the cold, waiting to go back home. Hel says, "Even if the house
back home. Hel says, "Even if the house is destroyed, even if it's just rubble,
is destroyed, even if it's just rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent, and return
we'll go back, put up a tent, and return to our people."
to our people." After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli
After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli military confirmed that the ceasefire
military confirmed that the ceasefire had started. Israeli troops have pulled
had started. Israeli troops have pulled back from some parts. But under the
back from some parts. But under the deal, they still occupy over half of
deal, they still occupy over half of Gaza.
Gaza. Many now going back, even by foot, are
Many now going back, even by foot, are rebuilding what's been destroyed.
rebuilding what's been destroyed. In Israel, the countdown for the release
In Israel, the countdown for the release of the hostages has begun. 20 are
of the hostages has begun. 20 are believed to remain alive.
believed to remain alive. One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at
One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.
We hope that he returns safe and sound. And we wish that with God's help within
And we wish that with God's help within the next two or three days, we will see
the next two or three days, we will see him. We'll rejoice together with the
him. We'll rejoice together with the family. And we really hope that
family. And we really hope that everyone, not just him, returns safe and
everyone, not just him, returns safe and sound.
sound. >> It's still not clear when and where the
>> It's still not clear when and where the hostages will be freed. The deal
hostages will be freed. The deal brokered by Trump is a major victory,
brokered by Trump is a major victory, but there's no clear plan for what
but there's no clear plan for what happens in Gaza next. The point now is
happens in Gaza next. The point now is that we need countries coming together
that we need countries coming together to make peace a reality and to actually
to make peace a reality and to actually make it happen because this is still a
make it happen because this is still a fragile process, but it's one that there
fragile process, but it's one that there is huge momentum behind and huge
is huge momentum behind and huge commitment to. So, we have to make it
commitment to. So, we have to make it work.
work. >> They can now walk without fearing the
>> They can now walk without fearing the war, but the Gaza they know is no longer
war, but the Gaza they know is no longer there. And no one knows what the new
there. And no one knows what the new Gaza will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News,
Gaza will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News, Jerusalem. Well, Donald Trump is
Jerusalem. Well, Donald Trump is expected to travel to Israel this
expected to travel to Israel this weekend. A little earlier, I was joined
weekend. A little earlier, I was joined by Hugo alongside our North America
by Hugo alongside our North America correspondent, Nomia Ikbal, who told us
correspondent, Nomia Ikbal, who told us what Mr. Trump will be hoping for during
what Mr. Trump will be hoping for during his visit.
his visit. >> He's going on Sunday to Israel. He will
>> He's going on Sunday to Israel. He will be addressing the Israeli parliament.
be addressing the Israeli parliament. He'll be in the Knesset, and it'll be an
He'll be in the Knesset, and it'll be an opportunity for him to essentially take
opportunity for him to essentially take a victory lap uh over the fact that the
a victory lap uh over the fact that the deal has got this far. I think it's also
deal has got this far. I think it's also an opportunity for him to uh put
an opportunity for him to uh put pressure maybe on the far right in the
pressure maybe on the far right in the Israeli government who despite the deal
Israeli government who despite the deal having gone through the first phase are
having gone through the first phase are still um not keen on it. Um also worth
still um not keen on it. Um also worth mentioning that uh polls suggest that
mentioning that uh polls suggest that Mr. Trump is much more popular in Israel
Mr. Trump is much more popular in Israel than Netanyahu something that he hasn't
than Netanyahu something that he hasn't uh that he has mentioned to Mr.
uh that he has mentioned to Mr. Netanyahu a few times. And then there is
Netanyahu a few times. And then there is an expectation that he might go to Cairo
an expectation that he might go to Cairo next week to take part in the actual
next week to take part in the actual signing of the deal. He has been invited
signing of the deal. He has been invited by Egypt's president. And when it all
by Egypt's president. And when it all comes down to it, Gita, Mr. Trump is
comes down to it, Gita, Mr. Trump is very much about the visuals, very much
very much about the visuals, very much about the optics. He knows that this is
about the optics. He knows that this is a moment to take those iconic pictures
a moment to take those iconic pictures uh to to show this moment in history
uh to to show this moment in history which um if he does pull it pull it off
which um if he does pull it pull it off and he is on the verge of achieving
and he is on the verge of achieving something major, it will definitely be a
something major, it will definitely be a significant part of his legacy. And let
significant part of his legacy. And let me just bring in Hugo who is in
me just bring in Hugo who is in Jerusalem. Hugo, we saw your report and
Jerusalem. Hugo, we saw your report and you said it is not clear what comes
you said it is not clear what comes next. There is a 20point plan. Tony
next. There is a 20point plan. Tony Blair's name um against that plan.
Blair's name um against that plan. Obviously a lot of um other players have
Obviously a lot of um other players have been involved in drawing that up. Is it
been involved in drawing that up. Is it clear that the US is going to help drive
clear that the US is going to help drive that forward? that the president's
that forward? that the president's attention will stay focused on the next
attention will stay focused on the next few days and weeks.
>> Yeah, there's huge momentum here in these negotiations and President Trump
these negotiations and President Trump has been heavily involved uh in these
has been heavily involved uh in these efforts uh putting pressure not only on
efforts uh putting pressure not only on Hamas but also on the Israeli Prime
Hamas but also on the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. So what's
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. So what's being agreed here uh you may say was the
being agreed here uh you may say was the easiest part of this 20point plan the
easiest part of this 20point plan the release of the hostages and a ceasefire
release of the hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. But what happens next isn't
in Gaza. But what happens next isn't really clear. You know the uh details uh
really clear. You know the uh details uh you know we don't have the details. Uh
you know we don't have the details. Uh the plan is just you know a framework of
the plan is just you know a framework of what has to be decided. But we know that
what has to be decided. But we know that these major obstacles remain. the key
these major obstacles remain. the key Israeli demand for Hamas to disarm which
Israeli demand for Hamas to disarm which has been rejected by Hamas so far. Uh
has been rejected by Hamas so far. Uh the extent of the withdrawal of Israeli
the extent of the withdrawal of Israeli troops, Hamas is demanding a full uh
troops, Hamas is demanding a full uh withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza
withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and obviously uh the question over what
and obviously uh the question over what happens with Gaza next? Who is going to
happens with Gaza next? Who is going to govern Gaza? Will Hamas have any kind of
govern Gaza? Will Hamas have any kind of role to play in a post-war Gaza? These
role to play in a post-war Gaza? These are very difficult points and there has
are very difficult points and there has been no indication no suggestion uh over
been no indication no suggestion uh over how these negotiations are going to
how these negotiations are going to unfold and how these major uh gaps how
unfold and how these major uh gaps how negotiations are going to be able to
negotiations are going to be able to bridge those major gaps between Israel
bridge those major gaps between Israel and Hamas
and Hamas >> and Nam Bal um in terms of the uh the
>> and Nam Bal um in terms of the uh the wider backdrop to today that we've also
wider backdrop to today that we've also been covering the Nobel Peace Prize is
been covering the Nobel Peace Prize is something that Donald Trump publicly
something that Donald Trump publicly mentioned at so many of his news
mentioned at so many of his news conferences repeatedly in recent weeks.
conferences repeatedly in recent weeks. He didn't win and there has been a
He didn't win and there has been a reaction today on that.
reaction today on that. >> Yeah, the White House isn't happy about
>> Yeah, the White House isn't happy about it, accusing the committee of putting
it, accusing the committee of putting politics over peace. But look, there was
politics over peace. But look, there was no real question that Donald Trump was
no real question that Donald Trump was going to win it this year. I think there
going to win it this year. I think there are two things here. There is Donald
are two things here. There is Donald Trump's campaign to win the Nobel Peace
Trump's campaign to win the Nobel Peace Prize, and then there's the actual Nobel
Prize, and then there's the actual Nobel Peace Prize. And there's no doubt Mr.
Peace Prize. And there's no doubt Mr. Trump wants to win it. uh he's been
Trump wants to win it. uh he's been entered for it since 2018 over his
entered for it since 2018 over his Abraham Accords. That's the policy to
Abraham Accords. That's the policy to try and get Arab nations to recognize
try and get Arab nations to recognize Israel. Uh but the committee had
Israel. Uh but the committee had probably already made their minds up and
probably already made their minds up and also the ceasefire in the Middle East
also the ceasefire in the Middle East hasn't endured yet. We we have yet to
hasn't endured yet. We we have yet to see the results of it. Uh so I don't
see the results of it. Uh so I don't think he was going to win today, but I'm
think he was going to win today, but I'm pretty sure that there's maybe a chance
pretty sure that there's maybe a chance next year. I'm sure I'm I'm sure that
next year. I'm sure I'm I'm sure that the White House will be hoping that will
the White House will be hoping that will be the case.
be the case. >> And and and Nia, just very quickly, I
>> And and and Nia, just very quickly, I mean, there's the timing of the
mean, there's the timing of the ceasefire that we are seeing and the and
ceasefire that we are seeing and the and the Nobel Award partly spur. Obviously,
the Nobel Award partly spur. Obviously, we've had the two-year anniversary of
we've had the two-year anniversary of October the 7th, too. So, it's it's been
October the 7th, too. So, it's it's been it's been really remarkable few days,
it's been really remarkable few days, hasn't it?
hasn't it? >> It is. I mean, you know, there is there
>> It is. I mean, you know, there is there are some conspiracies that this all kind
are some conspiracies that this all kind of the stars have aligned in some
of the stars have aligned in some respects, I guess. Yes, of course. Um,
respects, I guess. Yes, of course. Um, and you know, this deal uh has come
and you know, this deal uh has come pretty quickly in some ways. We know
pretty quickly in some ways. We know that Donald Trump had been pushing for
that Donald Trump had been pushing for it for a long time, but uh it it has all
it for a long time, but uh it it has all happened very quickly. But there's still
happened very quickly. But there's still a long way to go. And um you know, there
a long way to go. And um you know, there are plenty of people, Donald Trump
are plenty of people, Donald Trump supporters, his administration, who want
supporters, his administration, who want him to win this prize, saying that there
him to win this prize, saying that there are presidents before in their view who
are presidents before in their view who have won it for less. But there are also
have won it for less. But there are also the critics of President Trump who will
the critics of President Trump who will say, "Well, hang on a minute. There's a
say, "Well, hang on a minute. There's a lot going on here in the US in which
lot going on here in the US in which they consider Donald Trump um is um
they consider Donald Trump um is um attacking America and so he doesn't
attacking America and so he doesn't deserve the peace." As you can imagine,
deserve the peace." As you can imagine, Ger, it's all very divisive.
Namirkbal and Hugo Pache a little earlier. Well, let's get more now from
earlier. Well, let's get more now from inside Gaza. Our chief international
inside Gaza. Our chief international correspondent, Lee Ducet, who's in
correspondent, Lee Ducet, who's in Israel at the moment, spoke to Tess
Israel at the moment, spoke to Tess Ingram from UNICEF, who's currently
Ingram from UNICEF, who's currently working in Alawasi, and she began by
working in Alawasi, and she began by asking her to describe some of the
asking her to describe some of the conditions that Tess and her team are
conditions that Tess and her team are now finding.
now finding. >> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are
>> Incredibly crowded conditions. There are so many people that have been displaced
so many people that have been displaced here over the last few weeks, living in
here over the last few weeks, living in really, really difficult conditions.
really, really difficult conditions. lack of shelter, people under pieces of
lack of shelter, people under pieces of tarpolan with very little to keep them
tarpolan with very little to keep them warm as winter through broken rubble
warm as winter through broken rubble without shoes, insufficient access to
without shoes, insufficient access to food and water. And throughout all of
food and water. And throughout all of that, UNICEF is doing our best to
that, UNICEF is doing our best to respond. But like it has been throughout
respond. But like it has been throughout this conflict, we've been restricted in
this conflict, we've been restricted in what we can bring in and and what areas
what we can bring in and and what areas we have access to. So we are pleased. We
we have access to. So we are pleased. We really welcome this news of the
really welcome this news of the ceasefire and we hope that it will lead
ceasefire and we hope that it will lead to a scaling up of aid to help address
to a scaling up of aid to help address conditions here in Alawasi but across
conditions here in Alawasi but across the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing Tess
the Gaza Strip. And are you seeing Tess that people are starting to move uh to
that people are starting to move uh to go back to their homes if indeed they
go back to their homes if indeed they can along the lines permitted by the new
can along the lines permitted by the new Israeli deployment lines.
Israeli deployment lines. There's a lot of excitement but also
There's a lot of excitement but also apprehension about that move around
apprehension about that move around people make wanting to make sure that
people make wanting to make sure that they're going to be safe if they do move
they're going to be safe if they do move but of course already beginning to pack
but of course already beginning to pack up their belongings because as people
up their belongings because as people told me when I was here during the
told me when I was here during the February ceasefire and again now home is
February ceasefire and again now home is home and they want to go back to their
home and they want to go back to their communities and their lands even if it
communities and their lands even if it has been reduced to rubble. But what is
has been reduced to rubble. But what is then critical is that the humanitarian
then critical is that the humanitarian response is there for them, providing
response is there for them, providing them with that shelter, with a tent,
them with that shelter, with a tent, with access to safe drinking water, with
with access to safe drinking water, with those shoes for their children. And
those shoes for their children. And that's going to be our focus in the
that's going to be our focus in the coming days is to follow the thousands
coming days is to follow the thousands of people as they move back to their
of people as they move back to their communities.
communities. >> Tessa Ingram from UNICEF speaking to my
>> Tessa Ingram from UNICEF speaking to my colleague Lee Ducet around the world and
colleague Lee Ducet around the world and across the UK. This is BBC News.
So, a lot of moving parts, a lot to discuss. Who better than with our
discuss. Who better than with our international editor, Jeremy Bowen.
international editor, Jeremy Bowen. Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look,
Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look, we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about
we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about the next possible moves for the UN. They
the next possible moves for the UN. They are ready to get aid in. We've just
are ready to get aid in. We've just heard from Professor Soul, the UN
heard from Professor Soul, the UN special repator on human rights, who's
special repator on human rights, who's saying that the the plan of Donald Trump
saying that the the plan of Donald Trump is pretty vague. There are still things
is pretty vague. There are still things that really need to be nailed down, and
that really need to be nailed down, and ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of
ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of smoke across Gaza. Just help us to
smoke across Gaza. Just help us to unpick all of this.
unpick all of this. >> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I think that's absolutely the case,
think that's absolutely the case, whatever people are saying. uh and maybe
whatever people are saying. uh and maybe the next 24 hours or so that is going to
the next 24 hours or so that is going to happen that they will stop those
happen that they will stop those strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back and that's probably why they're
and that's probably why they're continuing them. In terms of this all
continuing them. In terms of this all goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that was that he put out a week or two ago.
was that he put out a week or two ago. And the thing about it is that if you
And the thing about it is that if you look at it, there is very little detail.
look at it, there is very little detail. There isn't just a lack of detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail. There's ambiguity. There's there some
There's ambiguity. There's there some things even seem quite contradictory
things even seem quite contradictory inside it. So the really big diplomatic
inside it. So the really big diplomatic challenge now that they've done the
challenge now that they've done the first phase or agreed to that and it's
first phase or agreed to that and it's going to unfold over the next couple of
going to unfold over the next couple of days seems pretty certain is is filling
days seems pretty certain is is filling in all of those gaps. And that is the
in all of those gaps. And that is the difficult stuff because ambiguity is
difficult stuff because ambiguity is something that works quite well where
something that works quite well where you're trying to get people to agree.
you're trying to get people to agree. But when it comes to actually
hard uh deals >> and that's a really important point
>> and that's a really important point comes to a timeline for a transfer of
comes to a timeline for a transfer of authority how the governance mechanism
authority how the governance mechanism will even work across Gaza. Who is even
will even work across Gaza. Who is even involved in that Jeremy?
involved in that Jeremy? Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in
Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in the 20point plan, there are various
the 20point plan, there are various aspirational things and there is they've
aspirational things and there is they've said that here's the structure. There'll
said that here's the structure. There'll be this council of peace on the top. Uh
be this council of peace on the top. Uh Donald Trump will be the chair. Uh Tony
Donald Trump will be the chair. Uh Tony Blair is going to be involved as well.
Blair is going to be involved as well. Um and then there's going to be some
Um and then there's going to be some kind of technocratic institution and
kind of technocratic institution and there will be some kind of international
there will be some kind of international force. It's very vague. there have to be
force. It's very vague. there have to be a lot of very um hard details worked out
a lot of very um hard details worked out and and that's the tough thing uh and
and and that's the tough thing uh and that things have to happen too like a UN
that things have to happen too like a UN security council resolution to authorize
security council resolution to authorize the presence of these foreign troops
the presence of these foreign troops there. I don't think that um Arab or
there. I don't think that um Arab or Muslim uh countries are going to really
Muslim uh countries are going to really want to get involved in something that
want to get involved in something that legally would be uh an illegal operation
legally would be uh an illegal operation lacking that kind of legitimacy that you
lacking that kind of legitimacy that you get from a security council resolution.
get from a security council resolution. I think they could get the resolution,
I think they could get the resolution, but it takes time and with the
but it takes time and with the difficulties in Gaza and the complexity
difficulties in Gaza and the complexity of things, maybe they don't have
of things, maybe they don't have indefinite amounts of time. And on that
indefinite amounts of time. And on that point, of course, aid getting in is
point, of course, aid getting in is absolutely critical in that first stage
absolutely critical in that first stage uh given the the famine, given the
uh given the the famine, given the humanitarian uh issues there, the acute
humanitarian uh issues there, the acute malnutrition. But what about the
malnutrition. But what about the rebuilding? Because we see the absolute
rebuilding? Because we see the absolute devastation across Gaza. Is there even
devastation across Gaza. Is there even any idea of who will be undertaking
any idea of who will be undertaking that, the contracts that potentially
that, the contracts that potentially will be implemented to to get Gaza
will be implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even clear on
rebuilt? We're still not even clear on that, are we, Jeremy?
that, are we, Jeremy? No, that's a long way off. That's a long
No, that's a long way off. That's a long way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
way off. Uh there's there's, you know, hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble apart from anything else. I think that
apart from anything else. I think that that will have to wait quite a while
that will have to wait quite a while because first of all, what they need to
because first of all, what they need to do is to get some stability for more
do is to get some stability for more than 2 million people almost all of whom
than 2 million people almost all of whom have been displaced on multiple
have been displaced on multiple occasions who a strip uh which is a tiny
occasions who a strip uh which is a tiny piece of land was already one of the
piece of land was already one of the most densely populated places in the
most densely populated places in the world. And now more than two million
world. And now more than two million people have been pushed into a fraction
people have been pushed into a fraction of it by the IDF, by the Israeli
of it by the IDF, by the Israeli military. So question mark, how to what
military. So question mark, how to what extent will they be allowed to go back
extent will they be allowed to go back to where they came from? What about what
to where they came from? What about what happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel seems to want to stay in that particular
seems to want to stay in that particular area. There's pressure inside the
area. There's pressure inside the Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't think that's going to be happening.
think that's going to be happening. Certainly not as yet. and they're very
Certainly not as yet. and they're very disappointed that it's not, but it's not
disappointed that it's not, but it's not off the agenda. So, there are lots of
off the agenda. So, there are lots of things in the future, in the immediate
things in the future, in the immediate future, that we don't know about. And
future, that we don't know about. And the challenge is going to be some of
the challenge is going to be some of these ambiguities and uncertainties and
these ambiguities and uncertainties and come out with a tangible diplomatic
come out with a tangible diplomatic agreement, which, you know, Trump is not
agreement, which, you know, Trump is not a details man. He's been a bulldozer
a details man. He's been a bulldozer pushing this through.
pushing this through. getting to the detail will take a
getting to the detail will take a sustained diplomatic effort and
sustained diplomatic effort and agreements. It's not something that
agreements. It's not something that necessarily can be imposed in the same
necessarily can be imposed in the same way that he actually said with, you
way that he actually said with, you know, after the 9th of September attacks
know, after the 9th of September attacks on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in Doha by the Israelis. That's that
Doha by the Israelis. That's that clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his hand massively. And the consequences
hand massively. And the consequences that he's dealing with now is that Trump
that he's dealing with now is that Trump has gone in there because attacking
has gone in there because attacking Qatar is bad for America. Trump has gone
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has gone in there and he's grabbed him by the
in there and he's grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and said Israel is
scruff of the neck and said Israel is going to the table and you're going to
going to the table and you're going to stay there until there is a deal based
stay there until there is a deal based on my 20 points. Now that has happened,
on my 20 points. Now that has happened, but what happens next? The detailed
but what happens next? The detailed stuff very difficult to achieve. Let's
stuff very difficult to achieve. Let's speak to Tom Fletcher. UN under
speak to Tom Fletcher. UN under secretary general for humanitarian
secretary general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator
affairs and emergency relief coordinator is speaking to us from Riyad in Saudi
is speaking to us from Riyad in Saudi Arabia. Tom, good morning.
Arabia. Tom, good morning. >> Good morning. Am
>> Good morning. Am >> let's just do a little bit on your
>> let's just do a little bit on your understanding of the situation before we
understanding of the situation before we get onto the plans that you must have
get onto the plans that you must have for the next uh month or so. Um
for the next uh month or so. Um journalists are still prohibited by
journalists are still prohibited by Israel from entering Gaza. Have you
Israel from entering Gaza. Have you heard from your people in in Gaza in the
heard from your people in in Gaza in the past 90 minutes or so that the ceasefire
past 90 minutes or so that the ceasefire has begun and is holding?
has begun and is holding? So, I'm in very close touch with our
So, I'm in very close touch with our teams inside Gaza, but also with
teams inside Gaza, but also with survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and
survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza as well. They have
civilians in Gaza as well. They have long waited and hoped for this moment,
long waited and hoped for this moment, and we've worked hard to get here. It
and we've worked hard to get here. It must not be a full storm. We need to
must not be a full storm. We need to ensure that President Trump's plan isn't
ensure that President Trump's plan isn't blocked by hardliners on either side.
blocked by hardliners on either side. We're hearing there have been strikes
We're hearing there have been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was
overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was reporting that about an hour ago as well
reporting that about an hour ago as well to Delant. and we need this ceasefire to
to Delant. and we need this ceasefire to be implemented.
be implemented. >> And as far as you understand, Tom, who
>> And as far as you understand, Tom, who is now responsible for aid in Gaza.
is now responsible for aid in Gaza. >> So, the UN has a plan. There's been
>> So, the UN has a plan. There's been unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of thousands killed, including over 18,000
thousands killed, including over 18,000 children. That's a child killed on
children. That's a child killed on average every hour for 2 years. And this
average every hour for 2 years. And this agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the real breakthrough will be when the
real breakthrough will be when the hostages are home. when children are
hostages are home. when children are fed, when they can sleep without terror
fed, when they can sleep without terror under a roof, when they're not bombed
under a roof, when they're not bombed and maimed, when they can be operated on
and maimed, when they can be operated on with anesthetics, when they can go back
with anesthetics, when they can go back to school, when families are reunited
to school, when families are reunited again. And so we will deliver that plan.
again. And so we will deliver that plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid
We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We
in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We have fought and beaten famines before,
have fought and beaten famines before, and we will do it again this time. very
and we will do it again this time. very very keen to talk to you about the
very keen to talk to you about the specifics of that plan in just a moment.
specifics of that plan in just a moment. But I've got one other practical
But I've got one other practical question if I may before we get there,
question if I may before we get there, which is how confident are you that the
which is how confident are you that the restrictions previously placed on aid
restrictions previously placed on aid deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries by Israel who say that those deliveries have been hijacked or
deliveries have been hijacked or vandalized that those restrictions will
vandalized that those restrictions will now be lifted.
now be lifted. >> So that's the big question for the
>> So that's the big question for the coming hours and days and obviously
coming hours and days and obviously we're in very close touch with the
we're in very close touch with the Israeli authorities uh in country to
Israeli authorities uh in country to make sure that those impediments, those
make sure that those impediments, those obstacles are now removed. We need all
obstacles are now removed. We need all the crossings open. We need safe routes
the crossings open. We need safe routes for our convoys. We need our people
for our convoys. We need our people protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues have been killed in the last two years.
have been killed in the last two years. We need the removal of red tape and
We need the removal of red tape and physical barriers. We need the power
physical barriers. We need the power back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals, our water stations.
our water stations. It's a massive, massive job ahead. We
It's a massive, massive job ahead. We need access for our NGO colleagues and
need access for our NGO colleagues and partners as well. And as you say, we
partners as well. And as you say, we need the international media to get back
need the international media to get back in and tell the world what is happening
in and tell the world what is happening and hold us to account for saving lives.
and hold us to account for saving lives. >> Well, let's go through some of your
>> Well, let's go through some of your plans for the coming uh weeks and
plans for the coming uh weeks and months. Then let's do this in stages if
months. Then let's do this in stages if we can. First of all, we'll get to the
we can. First of all, we'll get to the health system which has been decimated
health system which has been decimated and water and sanitation. But first of
and water and sanitation. But first of all, just on food, uh I think your
all, just on food, uh I think your understanding if I'm correct me if I'm
understanding if I'm correct me if I'm wrong, but there is now uh significant
wrong, but there is now uh significant famine and acute malnutrition across the
famine and acute malnutrition across the 2.1 million people of Gaza. What are
2.1 million people of Gaza. What are your plans for increasing food
your plans for increasing food deliveries immediately?
deliveries immediately? >> So, that's objective number one. We've
>> So, that's objective number one. We've got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've got to get hundreds of truckloads
got to get hundreds of truckloads convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with food and generosity and aid and help
food and generosity and aid and help right now. We need to get food to 2
right now. We need to get food to 2 million people across the strip in every
million people across the strip in every part of Gaza, north and south. And we
part of Gaza, north and south. And we have those supplies prepositioned. We've
have those supplies prepositioned. We've got 172,000 metric tons of food,
got 172,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at the crossings. The trucks are ready to
the crossings. The trucks are ready to roll, and we'll use our community
roll, and we'll use our community networks, are to get that food where it
networks, are to get that food where it is most needed.
is most needed. >> What are your plans when it comes to the
>> What are your plans when it comes to the health system?
health system? >> It's a massive, massive challenge. I I
>> It's a massive, massive challenge. I I saw for myself when I visited in in
saw for myself when I visited in in January the scale of destruction of the
January the scale of destruction of the hospitals and of the medical sector. And
hospitals and of the medical sector. And of course it's got even worse uh since
of course it's got even worse uh since then. So we've got to rebuild those
then. So we've got to rebuild those hospitals. We've got to get the
hospitals. We've got to get the essential anesthetics in painkillers in.
essential anesthetics in painkillers in. We've got to ensure that full medical
We've got to ensure that full medical supplies are flowing but also medical
supplies are flowing but also medical expertise because many of those working
expertise because many of those working nurses and doctors in that sector have
nurses and doctors in that sector have also been killed. It's a massive massive
also been killed. It's a massive massive task ahead that has to run alongside
task ahead that has to run alongside that effort to feed everyone in Gaza.
that effort to feed everyone in Gaza. And presumably one of the uh most urgent
And presumably one of the uh most urgent tasks concerns water and sanitation.
tasks concerns water and sanitation. >> We need to get water to 1.4 million
>> We need to get water to 1.4 million people as part of this plan. We also
people as part of this plan. We also need to help people prepare for the
need to help people prepare for the winter ahead. It's getting much colder
winter ahead. It's getting much colder already. And so we're looking to get
already. And so we're looking to get thousands of tents into Gaza in the
thousands of tents into Gaza in the coming days and weeks to give them that
coming days and weeks to give them that shelter, but also to give them the means
shelter, but also to give them the means to start to go back and begin to rebuild
to start to go back and begin to rebuild their lives. We also want to get the
their lives. We also want to get the kids back to school. So, we have a plan
kids back to school. So, we have a plan to get 700,000 school age kids back into
to get 700,000 school age kids back into temporary classrooms at least and
temporary classrooms at least and supplied with the the books and the the
supplied with the the books and the the pens and pencils to begin studying
pens and pencils to begin studying again. To what extent can you just
again. To what extent can you just explain your the principles you apply to
explain your the principles you apply to uh the extent to which Tom you will work
uh the extent to which Tom you will work with Hamas who remain in place who've
with Hamas who remain in place who've not been completely uh disarmed to get
not been completely uh disarmed to get that delivery to get those health
that delivery to get those health services to get the water and sanitation
services to get the water and sanitation through. What's your principled position
through. What's your principled position in terms of what you'll do with a group
in terms of what you'll do with a group which Israel says still needs to be
which Israel says still needs to be disarmed urgently?
disarmed urgently? >> So our major priority is to get that aid
>> So our major priority is to get that aid to civilians where it's most needed. And
to civilians where it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as everywhere, we have to
here in Gaza, as everywhere, we have to work in a neutral, impartial,
work in a neutral, impartial, independent, principled way. Now,
independent, principled way. Now, everywhere we work, and you know, I've
everywhere we work, and you know, I've been on the phone today to colleagues in
been on the phone today to colleagues in Sudan who are getting past armed groups
Sudan who are getting past armed groups in Sudan. We always have to negotiate
in Sudan. We always have to negotiate access with whoever is on the ground.
access with whoever is on the ground. But we shouldn't have to ask to get to
But we shouldn't have to ask to get to civilians. We'll work with everyone we
civilians. We'll work with everyone we need to work with to get past the
need to work with to get past the blockages, whether those are on the
blockages, whether those are on the border or whether those are the armed
border or whether those are the armed groups inside Gaza, and reach the
groups inside Gaza, and reach the communities, the the moms and dads and
communities, the the moms and dads and kids, the families who need this support
kids, the families who need this support right now and can't wait.
right now and can't wait. >> This is obviously an extremely uh
>> This is obviously an extremely uh precarious uh fast changing situation.
precarious uh fast changing situation. We're very grateful for your time
We're very grateful for your time speaking to us, Tom. What's your biggest
speaking to us, Tom. What's your biggest concern about what could go wrong in the
concern about what could go wrong in the coming days?
coming days? So, so many things can go wrong. You
So, so many things can go wrong. You know, the devil's in the detail of this.
know, the devil's in the detail of this. I think President Trump deserves real
I think President Trump deserves real credit for having got us to this point
credit for having got us to this point and having set up this framework for a
and having set up this framework for a ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we
ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we have to get the details right. We've got
have to get the details right. We've got to move on from this vicious cycle of of
to move on from this vicious cycle of of cruelty and terror and revenge and
cruelty and terror and revenge and complicity, indifference and and
complicity, indifference and and inhumity. And then we have to rebuild
inhumity. And then we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that somehow start to
Gaza and beyond that somehow start to rebuild trust and hope between Israelis
rebuild trust and hope between Israelis and Palestinians. And that's going to be
and Palestinians. And that's going to be a really really long hard process. We've
a really really long hard process. We've got to rebuild confidence in
got to rebuild confidence in international law that's been so
international law that's been so corroded by this war. We've got to have
corroded by this war. We've got to have patience and we've got to have massive
patience and we've got to have massive generosity in the time ahead. And I hope
generosity in the time ahead. And I hope that people who've been moved by what
that people who've been moved by what they've seen in Gaza will now be moved
they've seen in Gaza will now be moved to be generous. We're only 25% funded on
to be generous. We're only 25% funded on our appeal. So please, you know, pick up
our appeal. So please, you know, pick up the phone, get online, visit
the phone, get online, visit crisisreief.un.org,
crisisreief.un.org, call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with
call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with aid.
aid. >> So can Israel be trusted to not restart
>> So can Israel be trusted to not restart its bombardment as soon as you get your
its bombardment as soon as you get your hostages back?
hostages back? >> The first thing is that every time
>> The first thing is that every time Israel signed an agreement, Israel
Israel signed an agreement, Israel completely fulfilled it. Israel uh never
completely fulfilled it. Israel uh never never uh broke a deal or an agreement
never uh broke a deal or an agreement that it actually signed on.
that it actually signed on. Unfortunately, twice broke agreements.
Unfortunately, twice broke agreements. >> Actually, Hamas time after time have
>> Actually, Hamas time after time have violated those agreements
violated those agreements >> earlier this year. It was Israel who
>> earlier this year. It was Israel who broke the ceasefire agreements.
broke the ceasefire agreements. >> No, that's not true. That's really
>> No, that's not true. That's really misleading and that's incorrect. And you
misleading and that's incorrect. And you heard from the Americans who were
heard from the Americans who were sitting around the table negotiating
sitting around the table negotiating that Hamas was wasting time that didn't
that Hamas was wasting time that didn't want to advance into the second stage.
want to advance into the second stage. You heard that from them, not from the
You heard that from them, not from the Israelis. So please do not invent facts.
Israelis. So please do not invent facts. The fact is now that Hamas didn't accept
The fact is now that Hamas didn't accept the peace plan. It only accepted the
the peace plan. It only accepted the first stage. If it would say yes like
first stage. If it would say yes like the rest of the international community,
the rest of the international community, like Israel, like the Palestinian
like Israel, like the Palestinian Authority, like Jordan, like Qatar, like
Authority, like Jordan, like Qatar, like Turkey, then you would know that this
Turkey, then you would know that this war would end completely. But
war would end completely. But unfortunately, they didn't, right? They
unfortunately, they didn't, right? They refused to do it and they only approved
refused to do it and they only approved the first stage of the deal until now.
the first stage of the deal until now. This is the reality again of Hamas. Now,
This is the reality again of Hamas. Now, >> so can I ask you then to answer the the
>> so can I ask you then to answer the the original question, which is, will Israel
original question, which is, will Israel restart its offensive?
restart its offensive? >> Well, as long as Hamas accept the deal
>> Well, as long as Hamas accept the deal that's on the table like Israel did,
that's on the table like Israel did, like the Palestinian did, and like the
like the Palestinian did, and like the Arab countries did, obviously, they
Arab countries did, obviously, they won't. And Israel doesn't want it. Every
won't. And Israel doesn't want it. Every time Israel had a diplomatic path to
time Israel had a diplomatic path to achieve our goals, which are the return
achieve our goals, which are the return of our hostages uh uh dismantle kamas
of our hostages uh uh dismantle kamas from its arms, which is what any country
from its arms, which is what any country would do for its citizens, protecting
would do for its citizens, protecting them, bringing them back home. Every
them, bringing them back home. Every time we had a diplomatic path, Israel
time we had a diplomatic path, Israel chose a diplomatic path.
chose a diplomatic path. >> Okay. And can I ask before we have to
>> Okay. And can I ask before we have to let you go as well,
let you go as well, >> other choice then we started a military
>> other choice then we started a military campaign to make sure we are able to
campaign to make sure we are able to bring them back home and dismantle
bring them back home and dismantle Hamas.
Hamas. >> Okay. And can I ask you as well um
>> Okay. And can I ask you as well um Sharon for clarity? Has the ceasefire
Sharon for clarity? Has the ceasefire started? It's been signed off by your
started? It's been signed off by your government. Has it started?
government. Has it started? >> Yes, the ceasefire started even though
>> Yes, the ceasefire started even though just a few hours ago Kamas's sniper have
just a few hours ago Kamas's sniper have killed another one of our soldiers. Just
killed another one of our soldiers. Just now the ceasefire actually entered last
now the ceasefire actually entered last night once it was approved by the
night once it was approved by the cabinet.
cabinet. >> Let's bring in Professor Ben Soul who's
>> Let's bring in Professor Ben Soul who's a UN special reporter on human rights
a UN special reporter on human rights and counterterrorism. And Professor
and counterterrorism. And Professor Soul, when it comes to the first stages,
Soul, when it comes to the first stages, we're we're awaiting the concrete
we're we're awaiting the concrete ceasefire to start, but I guess when it
ceasefire to start, but I guess when it comes to the next stages, the Israeli
comes to the next stages, the Israeli troops withdrawing to a particular line,
troops withdrawing to a particular line, meaning that they'll still have control
meaning that they'll still have control of around 53% of the Gaza Strip. What do
of around 53% of the Gaza Strip. What do we understand as to how that potentially
we understand as to how that potentially will look in practice on the ground in
will look in practice on the ground in Gaza?
Gaza? Uh good to be with you and I I think
Uh good to be with you and I I think lots can go wrong in this plan.
lots can go wrong in this plan. Everybody is absolutely relieved that
Everybody is absolutely relieved that the killing should stop very soon and
the killing should stop very soon and that the hostages will be released and
that the hostages will be released and arbitrarily pal arbitrarily detained
arbitrarily pal arbitrarily detained Palestinians will be released. But this
Palestinians will be released. But this is a very complex plan with lots of
is a very complex plan with lots of moving parts. It depends upon the
moving parts. It depends upon the goodwill of and good faith of both Hamas
goodwill of and good faith of both Hamas and Israel and the credibility of the US
and Israel and the credibility of the US in enforcing the parties to to live up
in enforcing the parties to to live up to their bargains. Uh so I think it's
to their bargains. Uh so I think it's very early days yet to say whether this
very early days yet to say whether this will work uh whether the plan will stick
will work uh whether the plan will stick and there's so much in the 20 points uh
and there's so much in the 20 points uh the other points and the next phases of
the other points and the next phases of this plan that are so vague uh and that
this plan that are so vague uh and that don't in certain respects comply with
don't in certain respects comply with international law that I think uh in the
international law that I think uh in the longer term we could be in for a
longer term we could be in for a potential resumption of conflict and
potential resumption of conflict and violence. So talk us through the aspects
violence. So talk us through the aspects that potentially do jar with
that potentially do jar with international law because we know that
international law because we know that part of this plan is the US moving
part of this plan is the US moving troops already based in the Middle East
troops already based in the Middle East to Israel to coordinate the the
to Israel to coordinate the the multinational force which will monitor
multinational force which will monitor the ceasefire as and when it does come
the ceasefire as and when it does come into place. Are we basically effectively
into place. Are we basically effectively trans moving from an Israeli force
trans moving from an Israeli force within Gaza to a multinational one? and
within Gaza to a multinational one? and is that within international law?
is that within international law? >> So at the root cause of this conflict is
>> So at the root cause of this conflict is the failure of the international
the failure of the international community to enforce the Palestinians
community to enforce the Palestinians right to self-determination and
right to self-determination and statethood for many many decades. Uh the
statethood for many many decades. Uh the Palestinians were promised a state about
Palestinians were promised a state about a century ago actually and although
a century ago actually and although Israel got one many years ago uh the
Israel got one many years ago uh the Palestinians right has been denied and
Palestinians right has been denied and this plan doesn't fix that. There are
this plan doesn't fix that. There are some vague aspirational references to
some vague aspirational references to self-determination, but there are no
self-determination, but there are no concrete benchmarks or guarantees that
concrete benchmarks or guarantees that the Palestinians will get their own
the Palestinians will get their own independent state free of any kind of
independent state free of any kind of foreign occupation Israeli. And of
foreign occupation Israeli. And of course, here the Israelis will partially
course, here the Israelis will partially continue to occupy uh Palestine uh and
continue to occupy uh Palestine uh and or or some other international
or or some other international occupation because remember this plan is
occupation because remember this plan is not so far endorsed by the UN Security
not so far endorsed by the UN Security Council. It's not an international
Council. It's not an international peacekeeping uh force of United Nations
peacekeeping uh force of United Nations personnel. Uh it will be a US-led
personnel. Uh it will be a US-led occupation of Palestinian territory. Uh
occupation of Palestinian territory. Uh now, of course, the International Court
now, of course, the International Court of Justice just last year said the
of Justice just last year said the Palestinians have a right of
Palestinians have a right of self-determination. Israel must withdraw
self-determination. Israel must withdraw as soon as possible from the Palestinian
as soon as possible from the Palestinian territories. and the court wasn't
territories. and the court wasn't suggesting that it's somehow up to the
suggesting that it's somehow up to the United States to uh come in and impose
United States to uh come in and impose its own occupation in place of the
its own occupation in place of the Israelis.
Israelis. >> Arguably though, if the international
>> Arguably though, if the international community, if the UN haven't been able
community, if the UN haven't been able to reach this moment and it's the US
to reach this moment and it's the US that's pushing it, is there any kind of
that's pushing it, is there any kind of leeway within um international law to
leeway within um international law to facilitate this or is this a a breach of
facilitate this or is this a a breach of those guidelines from the international
those guidelines from the international community?
community? So the reason the United Nations
So the reason the United Nations Security Council has not been able to
Security Council has not been able to act in this situation is precisely
act in this situation is precisely because of the United States and its
because of the United States and its threat of a veto or its actual exercise
threat of a veto or its actual exercise of its veto power to prevent collective
of its veto power to prevent collective action uh to resolve the Palestine
action uh to resolve the Palestine question. So this is the fault of the
question. So this is the fault of the United States. Uh in addition, of
United States. Uh in addition, of course, President Trump's been in power
course, President Trump's been in power for almost a year. uh he's been
for almost a year. uh he's been supplying weapons and ammunition to
supplying weapons and ammunition to Israel to continue committing
Israel to continue committing international crimes in Gaza for almost
international crimes in Gaza for almost a year. Uh so at any point he could have
a year. Uh so at any point he could have turned off the tap of weapons uh and uh
turned off the tap of weapons uh and uh stopped the Israeli occupation much much
stopped the Israeli occupation much much earlier. The other problem in this of
earlier. The other problem in this of course is that there is no timeline for
course is that there is no timeline for transfer of authority to pal genuine
transfer of authority to pal genuine Palestinian representative governance.
Palestinian representative governance. uh the 20point plan. Although there are
uh the 20point plan. Although there are 20 points, not one of them mentions uh
20 points, not one of them mentions uh accountability and justice for
accountability and justice for international crimes at a time when the
international crimes at a time when the International Criminal Court has
International Criminal Court has indicted Israeli leaders for
indicted Israeli leaders for international crimes, when the
international crimes, when the International Court of Justice is
International Court of Justice is considering considering a case alleging
considering considering a case alleging genocide against Israel. Uh and quite to
genocide against Israel. Uh and quite to the contrary, the the peace plan uh
the contrary, the the peace plan uh gives blanket amnesties to Hamas members
gives blanket amnesties to Hamas members uh for any international crimes that
uh for any international crimes that they may have committed. Uh so this is
they may have committed. Uh so this is denying justice and again fueling one of
denying justice and again fueling one of the underlying drivers uh of terrorist
the underlying drivers uh of terrorist violence uh and resistance to Israeli
violence uh and resistance to Israeli occupation in Palestine.
occupation in Palestine. >> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that
>> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that the Israeli society has been um based on
the Israeli society has been um based on all of the polls uh waiting for this
all of the polls uh waiting for this moment to see a realization of a deal.
moment to see a realization of a deal. It was President Trump that was able to
It was President Trump that was able to realize that deal. And this morning what
realize that deal. And this morning what we've seen in the earlier today uh is
we've seen in the earlier today uh is the redeployment of the military forces
the redeployment of the military forces to the yellow line which is something we
to the yellow line which is something we have to get used to saying um into a new
have to get used to saying um into a new reality I would say defensive but it
reality I would say defensive but it won't be a passive line of defense. You
won't be a passive line of defense. You know if there are Hamas terrorists that
know if there are Hamas terrorists that we've seen in the last few days trying
we've seen in the last few days trying to um have a go at at the Israeli
to um have a go at at the Israeli military across the different positions
military across the different positions within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will
within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will see more of these types of actions in
see more of these types of actions in the coming days as well. So they will be
the coming days as well. So they will be defending, they will be on the line, but
defending, they will be on the line, but I think that all eyes will be indeed
I think that all eyes will be indeed until uh pointed to Monday, Monday
until uh pointed to Monday, Monday morning, Monday afternoon to see the
morning, Monday afternoon to see the hostages come home, to see President
hostages come home, to see President Trump's visit and to see the realization
Trump's visit and to see the realization of the hostage release and advance. And
of the hostage release and advance. And I would say these types of things if
I would say these types of things if they actually do develop positively they
they actually do develop positively they can be confidencebuilding measures in
can be confidencebuilding measures in the advance of the entire process.
the advance of the entire process. >> Um one of the war aims of course was the
>> Um one of the war aims of course was the release of the hostages. Another was to
release of the hostages. Another was to destroy Hamas and arguably a disarmed
destroy Hamas and arguably a disarmed Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will
Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will be questions to come about the nature of
be questions to come about the nature of that disarmament. Heavy weapons versus
that disarmament. Heavy weapons versus light weapons quite what it actually
light weapons quite what it actually means. Are you clear as to what
means. Are you clear as to what disarmament means?
disarmament means? >> So I think that the the military goals
>> So I think that the the military goals were a very very clear goal that Hamas
were a very very clear goal that Hamas no longer poses a threat to Israel, a
no longer poses a threat to Israel, a threat like October 7th. And I I was
threat like October 7th. And I I was listening just before we came on to the
listening just before we came on to the words of uh Brigadier General Effie
words of uh Brigadier General Effie Dein, the IDF spokesperson today, and he
Dein, the IDF spokesperson today, and he was very very clear that that threat
was very very clear that that threat that existed on October 7th absolutely
that existed on October 7th absolutely does not exist today. Of course, Hamas
does not exist today. Of course, Hamas still have weapons, still have
still have weapons, still have capabilities, but they're extremely
capabilities, but they're extremely diminished compared to what we've
diminished compared to what we've endured over the last two years. So, I
endured over the last two years. So, I would say moving forward, we need to m
would say moving forward, we need to m maintain that at least the level of
maintain that at least the level of Hamas does not increase. Um, and I would
Hamas does not increase. Um, and I would say we need to push forward and
say we need to push forward and implement the agreement to make sure
implement the agreement to make sure that Hamas does not have a role in
that Hamas does not have a role in rebuilding Gaza because we've seen what
rebuilding Gaza because we've seen what they've done with the power of
they've done with the power of governance. They build a military, they
governance. They build a military, they build a terrorist army, and they came
build a terrorist army, and they came into into the Israeli communities in
into into the Israeli communities in October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that
October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that the the most um moving uh moments over
the the most um moving uh moments over the last couple of days were the very
the last couple of days were the very very low lows of the memorial, the
very low lows of the memorial, the anniversary of October 7th just a few
anniversary of October 7th just a few days ago. And then the immediate flip
days ago. And then the immediate flip over the anticipation, the jubilation of
over the anticipation, the jubilation of the expectations of the deal being
the expectations of the deal being realized and for the hostages to come
realized and for the hostages to come home. So, I think Israelis over the next
home. So, I think Israelis over the next few days are going to be glued to their
few days are going to be glued to their TV sets. They're going to be
TV sets. They're going to be hyperconnected to what's going on and
hyperconnected to what's going on and all eyes will be on who are the
all eyes will be on who are the terrorists that going to be released in
terrorists that going to be released in in um instead of the hostages being uh
in um instead of the hostages being uh released. How is the security indeed
released. How is the security indeed going to be realized? How are we going
going to be realized? How are we going to make sure that we can actually move
to make sure that we can actually move forward into a more safe, secure reality
forward into a more safe, secure reality for Israelis and Palestinians alike?
for Israelis and Palestinians alike? >> Let's talk now to the foreign secretary,
>> Let's talk now to the foreign secretary, Ivet Cooper. Iette Cooper, good morning
Ivet Cooper. Iette Cooper, good morning to you. Thank you very much um for
to you. Thank you very much um for joining us here on BBC Breakfast. I just
joining us here on BBC Breakfast. I just wondered if you could tell us what you
wondered if you could tell us what you know in terms of this ceasefire um and
know in terms of this ceasefire um and whether it is in effect, what you are
whether it is in effect, what you are hearing.
>> Well, we're hoping that this will be in place imminently. The uh there were
place imminently. The uh there were discussions about the the timing. Our
discussions about the the timing. Our view is that it should be brought in
view is that it should be brought in straight away. We we just need a a
straight away. We we just need a a desperately need the end complete end to
desperately need the end complete end to all of the fighting alongside the
all of the fighting alongside the release of hostages and the restoration
release of hostages and the restoration of desperately needed aid. We're already
of desperately needed aid. We're already working. There's already work underway
working. There's already work underway to get start getting the aid back in
to get start getting the aid back in place. So, we need all of the components
place. So, we need all of the components of this ceasefire agreement, this first
of this ceasefire agreement, this first phase of the US peace initiative have to
phase of the US peace initiative have to be in place as rapidly as possible,
be in place as rapidly as possible, implemented as swiftly as possible.
implemented as swiftly as possible. We've had two years of unimaginable
We've had two years of unimaginable suffering and it's extremely important
suffering and it's extremely important that this is a moment of peace, not just
that this is a moment of peace, not just a moment of hope.
a moment of hope. >> What do you understand of the deal? Um,
>> What do you understand of the deal? Um, just in terms of of the reporting, we
just in terms of of the reporting, we understand that one report said that
understand that one report said that once the deal had been signed um or the
once the deal had been signed um or the peace plan was in place, the ceasefire
peace plan was in place, the ceasefire plan was in place. Um, within 24 hours
plan was in place. Um, within 24 hours this um ceasefire would take come into
this um ceasefire would take come into force. Another is saying that it it
force. Another is saying that it it would immediately come into force. Are
would immediately come into force. Are you any clearer as to what exactly is
you any clearer as to what exactly is the case?
>> Well, we were expecting it to come in within 24 hours, but our view continues
within 24 hours, but our view continues to be we want it in place immediately,
to be we want it in place immediately, as rapidly as possible, and we hope that
as rapidly as possible, and we hope that it will be brought in as as soon as is
it will be brought in as as soon as is possible. But I think you could see I
possible. But I think you could see I mean we've seen some of the images
mean we've seen some of the images streets of Gaza the the desperate need
streets of Gaza the the desperate need to celebrate that people have after such
to celebrate that people have after such a long time of suffering where you've
a long time of suffering where you've got the pain of hostage families but
got the pain of hostage families but also the pain of of families across Gaza
also the pain of of families across Gaza who have uh endured the humanitarian
who have uh endured the humanitarian crisis for all of this time. We have to
crisis for all of this time. We have to have an end to this. This provides a
have an end to this. This provides a huge moment to be able to do so. It's a
huge moment to be able to do so. It's a tribute not just to the US leadership
tribute not just to the US leadership but also to Qatar, Turkey, Egypt who've
but also to Qatar, Turkey, Egypt who've been in the negotiations and all of the
been in the negotiations and all of the countries including the UK have been
countries including the UK have been working to support this and also to make
working to support this and also to make sure it can be implemented going forward
sure it can be implemented going forward and that's why I'm in Paris today.
and that's why I'm in Paris today. Indeed, it leads very nicely into what
Indeed, it leads very nicely into what you are doing in Paris. What involvement
you are doing in Paris. What involvement is are European countries, the UK going
is are European countries, the UK going to have with this um ceasefire
to have with this um ceasefire agreement?
Well, the UK has been one of very many countries that's been contributing to
countries that's been contributing to this peace process. We've been putting
this peace process. We've been putting forward proposals over the last few
forward proposals over the last few months. We've been involved in many of
months. We've been involved in many of the discussions to support President
the discussions to support President Trump's initiative and we will continue
Trump's initiative and we will continue to do so. So, the discussions we had
to do so. So, the discussions we had with last night were also with other
with last night were also with other countries like Jordan and Egypt on what
countries like Jordan and Egypt on what we need to do now to get the
we need to do now to get the humanitarian aid in as fast as possible.
humanitarian aid in as fast as possible. We need UN agencies but also other uh
We need UN agencies but also other uh agencies that have experience on the
agencies that have experience on the ground to be able to get that aid
ground to be able to get that aid rapidly in place. We talked to about the
rapidly in place. We talked to about the need to restore medical uh facilities,
need to restore medical uh facilities, hospital services, basic health services
hospital services, basic health services uh in Gaza as well. and we talked about
uh in Gaza as well. and we talked about the longerterm issues around the
the longerterm issues around the reconstruction of Gaza and how countries
reconstruction of Gaza and how countries can work together uh how we can raise
can work together uh how we can raise the finance to invest in Gaza's
the finance to invest in Gaza's reconstruction for the future. So, a
reconstruction for the future. So, a range of different things. We need all
range of different things. We need all countries to pull together. I have a
countries to pull together. I have a real sense at the moment and I've had
real sense at the moment and I've had this for some time that there is a sense
this for some time that there is a sense of the whole world wanting to come
of the whole world wanting to come together to support a just and lasting
together to support a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. And that means
peace in the Middle East. And that means security for Palestinians and Israelis
security for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
alike. >> What um involvement do you think
>> What um involvement do you think Benjamin Netanyahu is willing to accept
Benjamin Netanyahu is willing to accept from European countries? In an interview
from European countries? In an interview about 5 days ago on Euro News, um he
about 5 days ago on Euro News, um he said Europe has basically caved into
said Europe has basically caved into Palestinian terrorism and radical
Palestinian terrorism and radical Islamist uh minorities. Europe has
Islamist uh minorities. Europe has essentially become irrelevant in
essentially become irrelevant in ceasefire plans because this is phase
ceasefire plans because this is phase one. There will be phase two.
There will of course there are two different phases as part of the 20point
different phases as part of the 20point plan that uh President Trump published
plan that uh President Trump published and as I said a lot of countries
and as I said a lot of countries including the UK have contributed to
including the UK have contributed to that process uh and to the plan to the
that process uh and to the plan to the proposals that are included and we will
proposals that are included and we will also continue to work together. of
also continue to work together. of course that this is going to involve
course that this is going to involve that partnership and of course this is
that partnership and of course this is going to involve uh different decisions
going to involve uh different decisions along the way and of course look we have
along the way and of course look we have had many disagreements with the um
had many disagreements with the um Israeli prime minister on exactly the
Israeli prime minister on exactly the points that you were referring to. We we
points that you were referring to. We we disagree on that. But the point now is
disagree on that. But the point now is that we need countries coming together
that we need countries coming together to make peace a reality and to actually
to make peace a reality and to actually make it happen because this is still a
make it happen because this is still a fragile process, but it's one that there
fragile process, but it's one that there is huge momentum behind and huge
is huge momentum behind and huge commitment to. So we have to make it
commitment to. So we have to make it work.
work. >> Do you believe that once Israel receives
>> Do you believe that once Israel receives the hostages, it will stick to the
the hostages, it will stick to the ceasefire?
>> Well, there's huge commitment from all sides to make sure that that happens.
sides to make sure that that happens. That's what you've heard from the US,
That's what you've heard from the US, their commitment to making sure that
their commitment to making sure that this agreement is maintained. We saw the
this agreement is maintained. We saw the uh Israeli cabinet has accepted the uh
uh Israeli cabinet has accepted the uh the full details of the first phase of
the full details of the first phase of the agreement and they have also signed
the agreement and they have also signed up to President Trump's 20point plan.
up to President Trump's 20point plan. So, it's immensely important that of
So, it's immensely important that of course they remain committed to that.
course they remain committed to that. It's also immensely important, urgently
It's also immensely important, urgently that Hamas release the hostages and that
that Hamas release the hostages and that there is no role for Hamas in the future
there is no role for Hamas in the future governance of Gaza or Palestine. We've
governance of Gaza or Palestine. We've made clear that and it's also part of
made clear that and it's also part of President Trump's 20point plan. So,
President Trump's 20point plan. So, look, a lot of work still to do, but
look, a lot of work still to do, but huge commitment to making that happen.
huge commitment to making that happen. >> Has there been um any discussion of
>> Has there been um any discussion of European or British troops um military
European or British troops um military involved in this ceasefire plan?
That's not our plan. There's no plans to do that. But there is an immediate
do that. But there is an immediate proposal for the US to lead what is
proposal for the US to lead what is effectively like a monitoring process to
effectively like a monitoring process to make sure that uh this happens on the
make sure that uh this happens on the ground to oversee the process with
ground to oversee the process with hostage release and also uh making sure
hostage release and also uh making sure that this first stage is implemented
that this first stage is implemented getting the the aid in place. But they
getting the the aid in place. But they have also made very clear that they
have also made very clear that they expect the the troops on the ground to
expect the the troops on the ground to be provided by neighboring states and
be provided by neighboring states and that is something that we do expect to
that is something that we do expect to happen and there are those international
happen and there are those international discussions about some of those
discussions about some of those neighboring countries and others
neighboring countries and others contributing to this international uh
contributing to this international uh security force this stabilization force
security force this stabilization force to make sure that peace can be
to make sure that peace can be implemented.
implemented. >> The UK will be contributing of course in
>> The UK will be contributing of course in different ways. One of the things that
different ways. One of the things that we'll be doing is working closely uh
we'll be doing is working closely uh with Egypt. For example, even next week
with Egypt. For example, even next week we have meetings on how we can get
we have meetings on how we can get private finance to go into Gaza to help
private finance to go into Gaza to help invest in the future.
invest in the future. >> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I think that's absolutely the case.
think that's absolutely the case. Whatever people are saying uh and maybe
Whatever people are saying uh and maybe the next 24 hours or so that is going to
the next 24 hours or so that is going to happen that they will stop those
happen that they will stop those strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back and that's probably why they're
and that's probably why they're continuing them. In terms of this all
continuing them. In terms of this all goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that was that he put out a week or two ago.
was that he put out a week or two ago. And the thing about it is that if you
And the thing about it is that if you look at it, there is very little detail.
look at it, there is very little detail. There isn't just a lack of detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail. There's ambiguity. There's there some
There's ambiguity. There's there some things even seem quite contradictory
things even seem quite contradictory inside it. So the really big diplomatic
inside it. So the really big diplomatic challenge now that they've done the
challenge now that they've done the first phase or agreed to that and it's
first phase or agreed to that and it's going to unfold over the next couple of
going to unfold over the next couple of days seems pretty certain is is filling
days seems pretty certain is is filling in all of those gaps. And that is the
in all of those gaps. And that is the difficult stuff because ambiguity is
difficult stuff because ambiguity is something that works quite well where
something that works quite well where you're trying to get people to agree,
you're trying to get people to agree, but when it comes to actually
but when it comes to actually implementing, you need hard uh deals.
implementing, you need hard uh deals. And that's a really important point
And that's a really important point because we are quite unclear when it
because we are quite unclear when it comes to a timeline for a transfer of
comes to a timeline for a transfer of authority how the governance mechanism
authority how the governance mechanism will even work across Gaza. Who is even
will even work across Gaza. Who is even involved in that Jeremy?
involved in that Jeremy? >> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in
>> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in the 20point plan there are various
the 20point plan there are various aspirational things and there is they've
aspirational things and there is they've said that here's the structure. There'll
said that here's the structure. There'll be this council piece on the top. Uh
be this council piece on the top. Uh Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony
Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony Blair's going to be involved as well. Um
Blair's going to be involved as well. Um and then there's going to be some kind
and then there's going to be some kind of technocratic institution and there
of technocratic institution and there will be some kind of international
will be some kind of international force. It's very vague. There have to be
force. It's very vague. There have to be a lot of very um hard details worked out
a lot of very um hard details worked out and and that's the tough thing. Uh and
and and that's the tough thing. Uh and there things have to happen too like a
there things have to happen too like a UN Security Council resolution to
UN Security Council resolution to authorize the presence of these foreign
authorize the presence of these foreign troops there. I don't think that um Arab
troops there. I don't think that um Arab or Muslim uh countries are going to
or Muslim uh countries are going to really want to get involved in something
really want to get involved in something that legally would be uh an illegal
that legally would be uh an illegal operation lacking that kind of
operation lacking that kind of legitimacy that you get from a Security
legitimacy that you get from a Security Council resolution. I think they could
Council resolution. I think they could get the resolution, but it takes time
get the resolution, but it takes time and with the difficulties in Gaza and
and with the difficulties in Gaza and the complexity of things, maybe they
the complexity of things, maybe they don't have indefinite amounts of time.
don't have indefinite amounts of time. And on that point, of course, aid
And on that point, of course, aid getting in is absolutely critical in
getting in is absolutely critical in that first stage uh given the the
that first stage uh given the the famine, given the humanitarian uh issues
famine, given the humanitarian uh issues there, the acute malnutrition. But what
there, the acute malnutrition. But what about the rebuilding? Because we see the
about the rebuilding? Because we see the absolute devastation across Gaza. Is
absolute devastation across Gaza. Is there even any idea of who will be
there even any idea of who will be undertaking that the contracts that
undertaking that the contracts that potentially will be implemented to to
potentially will be implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even
get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even clear on that, are we, Jeremy?
clear on that, are we, Jeremy? No, that's a long way off. That's a long
No, that's a long way off. That's a long way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
way off. Uh there's there's, you know, hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble apart from anything else. I think that
apart from anything else. I think that that will have to wait quite a while
that will have to wait quite a while because first of all what they need to
because first of all what they need to do is to get some stability for more
do is to get some stability for more than two million people almost all of
than two million people almost all of whom have been displaced on multiple
whom have been displaced on multiple occasions who it was already with the
occasions who it was already with the entire Gaza strip uh which is a tiny
entire Gaza strip uh which is a tiny piece of land was already one of the
piece of land was already one of the most densely populated places in the
most densely populated places in the world and now more than two million
world and now more than two million people have been pushed into a fraction
people have been pushed into a fraction of it by the IDF by the Israeli military
of it by the IDF by the Israeli military country. So question mark, how to what
country. So question mark, how to what extent will they be allowed to go back
extent will they be allowed to go back to where they came from? What about what
to where they came from? What about what happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel seems to want to stay in that particular
seems to want to stay in that particular area. There's pressure inside the
area. There's pressure inside the Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't think that's going to be happening.
think that's going to be happening. Certainly not as yet. And they're very
Certainly not as yet. And they're very disappointed that it's not. But it's not
disappointed that it's not. But it's not off the agenda. So there are lots of
off the agenda. So there are lots of things in the future in the immediate
things in the future in the immediate future that we don't know about and the
future that we don't know about and the challenge is going to be to try and deal
challenge is going to be to try and deal with some of these ambiguities and
with some of these ambiguities and uncertainties and come out with a
uncertainties and come out with a tangible diplomatic agreement which you
tangible diplomatic agreement which you know Trump is not a details man. He's
know Trump is not a details man. He's been a bulldozer pushing this through.
been a bulldozer pushing this through. Getting to the detail will take a
Getting to the detail will take a sustained diplomatic effort and
sustained diplomatic effort and agreements. It's not something that
agreements. It's not something that necessarily can be imposed in the same
necessarily can be imposed in the same way that he actually said with, you
way that he actually said with, you know, after the 9th of September attacks
know, after the 9th of September attacks on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in Doha by the Israelis. That's that
Doha by the Israelis. That's that clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his hand massively. And the consequences
hand massively. And the consequences that he's dealing with now is that Trump
that he's dealing with now is that Trump has gone in there because attacking
has gone in there because attacking Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got in there and he's grabbed him by the
in there and he's grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is
scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is going to the table and you're going to
going to the table and you're going to stay there until there is a deal based
stay there until there is a deal based on my 20 points." Now, that has
on my 20 points." Now, that has happened, but what happens next, the
happened, but what happens next, the detailed stuff, very difficult to
detailed stuff, very difficult to achieve. Let's speak to Tom Fletcher, UN
achieve. Let's speak to Tom Fletcher, UN Secretary General for Humanitarian
Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief
Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator. He's speaking to us from
Coordinator. He's speaking to us from Riyad in Saudi Arabia. Tom, good
Riyad in Saudi Arabia. Tom, good morning.
morning. >> Good morning, Ammo. Uh let's just do a
>> Good morning, Ammo. Uh let's just do a little bit on your understanding of the
little bit on your understanding of the situation before we get onto the plans
situation before we get onto the plans that you must have for the next uh month
that you must have for the next uh month or so. Um journalists are still
or so. Um journalists are still prohibited by Israel from entering Gaza.
prohibited by Israel from entering Gaza. Have you heard from your people in in
Have you heard from your people in in Gaza in the past 90 minutes or so that
Gaza in the past 90 minutes or so that the ceasefire has begun and is holding?
the ceasefire has begun and is holding? >> So I'm in very close touch with our
>> So I'm in very close touch with our teams inside Gaza, but also with
teams inside Gaza, but also with survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and
survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza as well. While they
civilians in Gaza as well. While they have long waited and hoped for this
have long waited and hoped for this moment, and we've worked hard to get
moment, and we've worked hard to get here, it must not be a full storm. We
here, it must not be a full storm. We need to ensure that President Trump's
need to ensure that President Trump's plan isn't blocked by hardliners on
plan isn't blocked by hardliners on either side. We're hearing there have
either side. We're hearing there have been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy
been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was reporting that about an hour
Bowen was reporting that about an hour ago as well. Today is crucial. We need
ago as well. Today is crucial. We need the guns to go silent and we need the
the guns to go silent and we need the ceasefire to be implemented.
ceasefire to be implemented. >> And as far as you understand, Tom, who
>> And as far as you understand, Tom, who is now responsible for aid in Gaza?
is now responsible for aid in Gaza? So, the UN has a plan. There's been
So, the UN has a plan. There's been unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of thousands killed, including over 18,000
thousands killed, including over 18,000 children. That's a child killed on
children. That's a child killed on average every hour for 2 years. And this
average every hour for 2 years. And this agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the real breakthrough will be when the
real breakthrough will be when the hostages are home, when children are
hostages are home, when children are fed, when they can sleep without terror
fed, when they can sleep without terror under a roof, when they're not bombed
under a roof, when they're not bombed and maimed, when they can be operated on
and maimed, when they can be operated on with anesthetics, when they can go back
with anesthetics, when they can go back to school, when families are reunited
to school, when families are reunited again. And so, we will deliver that
again. And so, we will deliver that plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get
plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid in to save lives at huge, huge
that aid in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We have fought and beaten famines
scale. We have fought and beaten famines before and we will do it again this
before and we will do it again this time.
time. >> Very, very keen to talk to you about the
>> Very, very keen to talk to you about the specifics of that plan in just a moment.
specifics of that plan in just a moment. But I've got one other practical
But I've got one other practical question if I may before we get there,
question if I may before we get there, which is how confident are you that the
which is how confident are you that the restrictions previously placed on aid
restrictions previously placed on aid deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries by Israel who say that those deliveries have been hijacked or
deliveries have been hijacked or vandalized that those restrictions will
vandalized that those restrictions will now be lifted.
now be lifted. So that's the big question for the
So that's the big question for the coming hours and days. And obviously
coming hours and days. And obviously we're in very close touch with the
we're in very close touch with the Israeli authorities uh in country to
Israeli authorities uh in country to make sure that those impediments, those
make sure that those impediments, those obstacles are now removed. We need all
obstacles are now removed. We need all the crossings open. We need safe routes
the crossings open. We need safe routes for our convoys. We need our people
for our convoys. We need our people protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues have been killed in the last two years.
have been killed in the last two years. We need the removal of red tape and
We need the removal of red tape and physical barriers. We need the power
physical barriers. We need the power back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals, our water stations.
our water stations. It's a massive massive job ahead. We
It's a massive massive job ahead. We need access for our NGO colleagues and
need access for our NGO colleagues and partners as well. And as you say, we
partners as well. And as you say, we need the international media to get back
need the international media to get back in and tell the world what is happening
in and tell the world what is happening and hold us to account for saving lives.
and hold us to account for saving lives. >> Well, let's go through some of your
>> Well, let's go through some of your plans for the coming uh weeks and
plans for the coming uh weeks and months. Then let's do this in stages if
months. Then let's do this in stages if we can. First of all, we'll get to the
we can. First of all, we'll get to the health system which has been decimated
health system which has been decimated and water and sanitation. But first of
and water and sanitation. But first of all, just on food, uh I think your
all, just on food, uh I think your understanding, if I'm correct me if I'm
understanding, if I'm correct me if I'm wrong, but that there is now uh
wrong, but that there is now uh significant famine and acute
significant famine and acute malnutrition across the 2.1 million
malnutrition across the 2.1 million people of Gaza. What are your plans for
people of Gaza. What are your plans for increasing food deliveries immediately?
increasing food deliveries immediately? >> So that's objective number one. We've
>> So that's objective number one. We've got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've got to get hundreds of truckloads
got to get hundreds of truckloads convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with food and generosity and aid and help
food and generosity and aid and help right now. We need to get food to 2
right now. We need to get food to 2 million people across the strip in every
million people across the strip in every part of Gaza, north and south. And we
part of Gaza, north and south. And we have those supplies pre-positioned.
have those supplies pre-positioned. We've got 172,000 metric tons of food,
We've got 172,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at the crossings. The trucks are ready to
the crossings. The trucks are ready to roll. And we'll use our community
roll. And we'll use our community networks, our expertise, our experience
networks, our expertise, our experience to get that food where it is most
to get that food where it is most needed. What are your plans when it
needed. What are your plans when it comes to the health system?
comes to the health system? >> It's a massive, massive challenge. I I
>> It's a massive, massive challenge. I I saw for myself when I visited in in
saw for myself when I visited in in January the scale of destruction of the
January the scale of destruction of the hospitals and of the medical sector. And
hospitals and of the medical sector. And of course, it's got even worse uh since
of course, it's got even worse uh since then. So, we've got to rebuild those
then. So, we've got to rebuild those hospitals. We've got to get the
hospitals. We've got to get the essential anesthetics in painkillers in.
essential anesthetics in painkillers in. We've got to ensure that full medical
We've got to ensure that full medical supplies are flowing, but also medical
supplies are flowing, but also medical expertise because many of those working
expertise because many of those working nurses and doctors in that sector have
nurses and doctors in that sector have also been killed. It's a massive,
also been killed. It's a massive, massive task ahead that has to run
massive task ahead that has to run alongside that effort to feed everyone
alongside that effort to feed everyone in Gaza.
in Gaza. >> And presumably, one of the most urgent
>> And presumably, one of the most urgent tasks concerns water and sanitation.
tasks concerns water and sanitation. >> We need to get water to 1.4 million
>> We need to get water to 1.4 million people as part of this plan. We also
people as part of this plan. We also need to help people prepare for the
need to help people prepare for the winter ahead. It's getting much colder
winter ahead. It's getting much colder already. And so we're looking to get
already. And so we're looking to get thousands of tents into Gaza in the
thousands of tents into Gaza in the coming days and weeks to give them that
coming days and weeks to give them that shelter, but also to give them the means
shelter, but also to give them the means to start to go back and begin to rebuild
to start to go back and begin to rebuild their lives. We also want to get the
their lives. We also want to get the kids back to school. So we have a plan
kids back to school. So we have a plan to get 700,000 school age kids back into
to get 700,000 school age kids back into temporary classrooms at least and
temporary classrooms at least and supplied with the the books and the the
supplied with the the books and the the pens and pencils to begin studying
pens and pencils to begin studying again. To what extent can you just
again. To what extent can you just explain your the principles you apply to
explain your the principles you apply to uh the extent to which Tom you will work
uh the extent to which Tom you will work with Hamas who remain in place who've
with Hamas who remain in place who've not been completely uh disarmed to get
not been completely uh disarmed to get that delivery to get those health
that delivery to get those health services to get the water and sanitation
services to get the water and sanitation through. What's your principled position
through. What's your principled position in terms of what you'll do with a group
in terms of what you'll do with a group which Israel says still needs to be
which Israel says still needs to be disarmed urgently. So our major priority
disarmed urgently. So our major priority is to get that aid to civilians where
is to get that aid to civilians where it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as
it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as everywhere, we have to work in a
everywhere, we have to work in a neutral, impartial, independent,
neutral, impartial, independent, principled way. Now, everywhere we work,
principled way. Now, everywhere we work, and you know, I've been on the phone
and you know, I've been on the phone today to colleagues in Sudan who are
today to colleagues in Sudan who are getting past armed groups in Sudan. We
getting past armed groups in Sudan. We always have to negotiate access with
always have to negotiate access with whoever is on the ground, but we
whoever is on the ground, but we shouldn't have to ask to get to
shouldn't have to ask to get to civilians. will work with everyone we
civilians. will work with everyone we need to work with to get past the
need to work with to get past the blockages whether those are on the
blockages whether those are on the border or whether those are the armed
border or whether those are the armed groups inside Gaza and reach the
groups inside Gaza and reach the communities the the moms and dads and
communities the the moms and dads and kids the families who need this support
kids the families who need this support right now and can't wait
right now and can't wait >> this is obviously an extremely uh
>> this is obviously an extremely uh precarious uh fast changing situation
precarious uh fast changing situation we're very grateful for your time
we're very grateful for your time speaking to us Tom what's your biggest
speaking to us Tom what's your biggest concern about what could go wrong in the
concern about what could go wrong in the coming days
coming days >> so so so many things can go wrong you
>> so so so many things can go wrong you know the devil's in the detail of this I
know the devil's in the detail of this I President Trump deserves real credit for
President Trump deserves real credit for having got us to this point and having
having got us to this point and having set up this framework for a ceasefire
set up this framework for a ceasefire and potential peace. Now we have to get
and potential peace. Now we have to get the details right. We've got to move on
the details right. We've got to move on from this vicious cycle of of cruelty
from this vicious cycle of of cruelty and terror and revenge and complicity,
and terror and revenge and complicity, indifference and and inhumity. And then
indifference and and inhumity. And then we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that
we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that somehow start to rebuild trust and hope
somehow start to rebuild trust and hope between Israelis and Palestinians. And
between Israelis and Palestinians. And that's going to be a really really long
that's going to be a really really long hard process. We've got to rebuild
hard process. We've got to rebuild confidence in international law that's
confidence in international law that's been so corroded by this war. We've got
been so corroded by this war. We've got to have patience and we've got to have
to have patience and we've got to have massive generosity in the time ahead.
massive generosity in the time ahead. And I hope that people who've been moved
And I hope that people who've been moved by what they've seen in Gaza will now be
by what they've seen in Gaza will now be moved to be generous. We're only 25%
moved to be generous. We're only 25% funded on our appeal. So please, you
funded on our appeal. So please, you know, pick up the phone, get online,
know, pick up the phone, get online, visit crisisreief.un.org,
visit crisisreief.un.org, call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with
call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with aid.
[Music] How you doing?
[Music] Hello. Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza
Hello. Thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are heading back to their homes or what
are heading back to their homes or what is left of them after Israel announced
is left of them after Israel announced that a ceasefire is now in effect in
that a ceasefire is now in effect in Gaza. Well, these are live pictures now
Gaza. Well, these are live pictures now of a steady stream of displaced
of a steady stream of displaced Palestinians trudging north along the
Palestinians trudging north along the coast of Gaza back towards Gaza City,
coast of Gaza back towards Gaza City, which was until very recently the scene
which was until very recently the scene of that ferocious Israeli ground
of that ferocious Israeli ground offensive and aerial bombardment. Well,
offensive and aerial bombardment. Well, Israel says its forces have now
Israel says its forces have now withdrawn to the lines within Gaza that
withdrawn to the lines within Gaza that were set out in the ceasefire agreement.
were set out in the ceasefire agreement. And as for Hamas, it now has until
And as for Hamas, it now has until Monday morning to release all the
Monday morning to release all the Israeli hostages, 20 who are still
Israeli hostages, 20 who are still believed to be alive and the bodies of
believed to be alive and the bodies of 28 others thought to be dead. In return,
28 others thought to be dead. In return, Israel has published a list of 250
Israel has published a list of 250 Palestinian prisoners and detainees who
Palestinian prisoners and detainees who are to be released in exchange.
are to be released in exchange. Well, meanwhile, the Israeli Prime
Well, meanwhile, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said in
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said in a televised address that his country's
a televised address that his country's troops will stay in Gaza to make sure
troops will stay in Gaza to make sure Hamas disarms in future stages of the
Hamas disarms in future stages of the ceasefire plan. Our Middle East
ceasefire plan. Our Middle East correspondent Hugo Basher has this
correspondent Hugo Basher has this report.
report. >> By the road, they waited with a few
>> By the road, they waited with a few things that were now everything they
things that were now everything they had. Unsure if it was safe to return,
had. Unsure if it was safe to return, unsure if the bombs had stopped falling.
unsure if the bombs had stopped falling. The deal had brought them hope. But this
The deal had brought them hope. But this morning, they still didn't know if had
morning, they still didn't know if had finally brought them peace.
finally brought them peace. My son and I slept here last night on
My son and I slept here last night on the pavement in the cold, waiting to go
the pavement in the cold, waiting to go back home. While says, "Even if the
back home. While says, "Even if the house is destroyed, even if it's just
house is destroyed, even if it's just rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent,
rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent, and return to our people."
and return to our people." After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli
After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli military confirmed that the ceasefire
military confirmed that the ceasefire had started. Israeli troops have pulled
had started. Israeli troops have pulled back from some parts, but under the
back from some parts, but under the deal, they still occupy over half of
deal, they still occupy over half of Gaza.
Gaza. Many now going back, even by foot, to
Many now going back, even by foot, to mourn who's been lost and to start
mourn who's been lost and to start rebuilding what's been destroyed.
rebuilding what's been destroyed. In Israel, the countdown for the release
In Israel, the countdown for the release of the hostages has begun. 20 are
of the hostages has begun. 20 are believed to remain alive.
believed to remain alive. One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at
One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.
>> We hope that he returns safe and sound. And we wish that with God's help within
And we wish that with God's help within the next 2 or 3 days, we will see him.
the next 2 or 3 days, we will see him. We'll rejoice together with the family.
We'll rejoice together with the family. And we really hope that everyone, not
And we really hope that everyone, not just him, returns safe and sound.
just him, returns safe and sound. >> It's still not clear when and where the
>> It's still not clear when and where the hostages will be freed. The deal
hostages will be freed. The deal brokered by Trump is a major victory,
brokered by Trump is a major victory, but this no clear plan for what happens
but this no clear plan for what happens in Gaza next.
in Gaza next. >> The point now is that we need countries
>> The point now is that we need countries coming together to make peace a reality
coming together to make peace a reality and to actually make it happen because
and to actually make it happen because this is still a fragile process, but
this is still a fragile process, but it's one that there is huge momentum
it's one that there is huge momentum behind and huge commitment to. So, we
behind and huge commitment to. So, we have to make it work.
have to make it work. >> They can now walk without fearing the
>> They can now walk without fearing the war. But the Gaza they know is no longer
war. But the Gaza they know is no longer there. And no one knows what the new
there. And no one knows what the new Gaza will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News,
Gaza will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News, Jerusalem.
Jerusalem. >> Well, we can go live with the very
>> Well, we can go live with the very latest to our Gaza correspondent Rushi
latest to our Gaza correspondent Rushi Abu Aluf who is currently in Istanbul
Abu Aluf who is currently in Istanbul and also our North America correspondent
and also our North America correspondent Nomia Ikbal who's in Washington. Rushi,
Nomia Ikbal who's in Washington. Rushi, first of all to you and I know you're
first of all to you and I know you're talking to a lot of people in Gaza at
talking to a lot of people in Gaza at the moment. What is a mood? The mood
the moment. What is a mood? The mood amongst those who are returning to their
amongst those who are returning to their homes and we saw them in those dramatic
homes and we saw them in those dramatic live pictures coming into us from Gaza.
Well, the mood in Gaza since the morning was shifted from joy and happiness
was shifted from joy and happiness yesterday to some anger as the videos
yesterday to some anger as the videos emerge and those people who are walking
emerge and those people who are walking back in this huge march back to Gaza,
back in this huge march back to Gaza, they have received information that most
they have received information that most of them they won't found their homes
of them they won't found their homes anymore standing. We are expecting uh
anymore standing. We are expecting uh this uh line to be uh uh continue for
this uh line to be uh uh continue for days because if you if you look this
days because if you if you look this very small dusty road it takes time for
very small dusty road it takes time for about 700,000 people who fled Gaza
about 700,000 people who fled Gaza during the fighting to return back.
during the fighting to return back. Well, we heard that Israel would allow
Well, we heard that Israel would allow also the Salah road which is probably
also the Salah road which is probably more more bigger road to allow the
more more bigger road to allow the people to to go back. But it is very
people to to go back. But it is very angry mood because the the the images
angry mood because the the the images and the picture from Gaza is is is
and the picture from Gaza is is is really showing that the three main
really showing that the three main neighborhood Shehardan in the north,
neighborhood Shehardan in the north, Sabra and Zetun in the south and 90% of
Sabra and Zetun in the south and 90% of it is completely destroyed and this walk
it is completely destroyed and this walk is about 20 kilometer and and very few
is about 20 kilometer and and very few people who can afford this big payment
people who can afford this big payment of 900 pound to hire a truck, small
of 900 pound to hire a truck, small truck or a car. Most of the people they
truck or a car. Most of the people they don't have the money to to pay for this.
don't have the money to to pay for this. So the the mood of celebration just
So the the mood of celebration just changed to uh what we can see now live
changed to uh what we can see now live picture from there.
picture from there. >> Okay. Thank you very much indeed. And to
>> Okay. Thank you very much indeed. And to Nomi Rickbal in Washington. Nomia we
Nomi Rickbal in Washington. Nomia we know that President Trump is heading out
know that President Trump is heading out to Israel. Um what what are his plans?
to Israel. Um what what are his plans? Can you tell us that?
Can you tell us that? >> Yes, he'll be going on Sunday. He plans
>> Yes, he'll be going on Sunday. He plans to address the Israeli parliament in
to address the Israeli parliament in Knesset. it will be somewhat of a
Knesset. it will be somewhat of a victory lap for him. Uh he will probably
victory lap for him. Uh he will probably also be looking to put more pressure on
also be looking to put more pressure on the members of the Israeli government,
the members of the Israeli government, the farright members who whilst the the
the farright members who whilst the the phase one of this deal has passed,
phase one of this deal has passed, they're still pushing back on on parts
they're still pushing back on on parts of the ceasefire. Uh there were talks
of the ceasefire. Uh there were talks about him potentially going to Gaza, but
about him potentially going to Gaza, but that we understand is not going to
that we understand is not going to happen. Uh there's still a long way to
happen. Uh there's still a long way to go obviously and you know just looking
go obviously and you know just looking at the pictures and what Rushi is saying
at the pictures and what Rushi is saying there uh the so many unanswered
there uh the so many unanswered questions yet. What happens to Gaza? Who
questions yet. What happens to Gaza? Who governs Gaza? How do people rebuild
governs Gaza? How do people rebuild their lives there? Um Mr. Trump is then
their lives there? Um Mr. Trump is then expected to go to Egypt to Shamal Shik
expected to go to Egypt to Shamal Shik where he's been invited by Egypt's
where he's been invited by Egypt's president to then take part in the
president to then take part in the official signing of the ceasefire. And
official signing of the ceasefire. And Mr. Trump is an optics guy. He knows
Mr. Trump is an optics guy. He knows that this is all about ultimately how it
that this is all about ultimately how it looks and it will be a moment for many
looks and it will be a moment for many pictures to be taken uh to record this
pictures to be taken uh to record this moment in history and I think if the
moment in history and I think if the ceasefire does fully pull off and there
ceasefire does fully pull off and there is enduring peace, this will definitely
is enduring peace, this will definitely be a very significant part of his
be a very significant part of his legacy.
legacy. >> He definitely is an optic guy and one of
>> He definitely is an optic guy and one of the optics he was hoping for was a
the optics he was hoping for was a picture of him holding the Nobel Peace
picture of him holding the Nobel Peace Prize and he hasn't got that. Um what
Prize and he hasn't got that. Um what what's been the reaction Nomia from the
what's been the reaction Nomia from the White House to that?
White House to that? Well, obviously they're not thrilled
Well, obviously they're not thrilled about it. I mean, the Nobel Peace Prize
about it. I mean, the Nobel Peace Prize has been this almost obsession, I would
has been this almost obsession, I would say, uh, for the Trump administration,
say, uh, for the Trump administration, for the Trump team, for Trump himself.
for the Trump team, for Trump himself. Uh, they released a statement, uh,
Uh, they released a statement, uh, saying that the the committee had put
saying that the the committee had put peace, sorry, politics over peace, but,
peace, sorry, politics over peace, but, you know, not to be a party pooper, I
you know, not to be a party pooper, I don't think there was any chance of him
don't think there was any chance of him getting it this year. He was nominated
getting it this year. He was nominated by the Pakistani government and by the
by the Pakistani government and by the Israeli prime minister in December, but
Israeli prime minister in December, but by the time this uh this first part of
by the time this uh this first part of this the the ceasefire was announced,
this the the ceasefire was announced, the the committee had probably already
the the committee had probably already made their minds up. Um but I'm I'm I'm
made their minds up. Um but I'm I'm I'm sure that they will be hoping uh to try
sure that they will be hoping uh to try and get it next year.
and get it next year. >> Okay, Nomia, thank you very much indeed.
>> Okay, Nomia, thank you very much indeed. Nomal and also Rushi Abu Alu, our Gaza
Nomal and also Rushi Abu Alu, our Gaza correspondent speaking to us from
correspondent speaking to us from Istanbul. Thanks to both of you. And we
Istanbul. Thanks to both of you. And we can speak now to Riyad Mansour who's a
can speak now to Riyad Mansour who's a permanent observer of the state of
permanent observer of the state of Palestine to the United Nations. Uh
Palestine to the United Nations. Uh thank you so much for being with us on
thank you so much for being with us on BBC News. Um are you optimistic that
BBC News. Um are you optimistic that this ceasefire plan can hold?
this ceasefire plan can hold? >> Uh yes, I am optimistic. Thank you for
>> Uh yes, I am optimistic. Thank you for having me. I admire and I was moved by
having me. I admire and I was moved by this massive river of Palestinians
this massive river of Palestinians returning to their homes in the north in
returning to their homes in the north in the Gaza Strip. This is uh it happened
the Gaza Strip. This is uh it happened at the beginning of the year when the
at the beginning of the year when the ceasefire was announced on 19th of
ceasefire was announced on 19th of January and they returned and they are
January and they returned and they are determined to go back to their houses to
determined to go back to their houses to clean up and to begin the reconstruction
clean up and to begin the reconstruction and to set up tents. You cannot but
and to set up tents. You cannot but admire and be moved by the resiliency of
admire and be moved by the resiliency of the Palestinian people. Well, it is a
the Palestinian people. Well, it is a very moving site there and we can see
very moving site there and we can see those pictures of that continuing stream
those pictures of that continuing stream of humanity really as the Palestinians
of humanity really as the Palestinians head back to Gaza City to try to find uh
head back to Gaza City to try to find uh what is left of their homes. But can I
what is left of their homes. But can I ask you Ray Mansur, I mean what do you
ask you Ray Mansur, I mean what do you think in the longer term, this is just
think in the longer term, this is just the first phase of the ceasefire plan,
the first phase of the ceasefire plan, but later on the plan says that Hamas
but later on the plan says that Hamas has to disarm. Now, the Israeli prime
has to disarm. Now, the Israeli prime minister has said Israeli troops will
minister has said Israeli troops will stay in Gaza until Hamas does disarm. Do
stay in Gaza until Hamas does disarm. Do you see that happening?
>> Well, let us first of all deal with the details of what was agreed upon. Uh the
details of what was agreed upon. Uh the uh people are returning to their homes
uh people are returning to their homes in the northern part. Uh they need
in the northern part. Uh they need massive humanitarian assistance and I
massive humanitarian assistance and I listened to Mr. Fletcher in your uh
listened to Mr. Fletcher in your uh earlier program in which he said that
earlier program in which he said that they have thousands of truckloads of
they have thousands of truckloads of humanitarian assistance and they want to
humanitarian assistance and they want to flood the Gaza Strip with needed
flood the Gaza Strip with needed humanitarian assistance, food, water,
humanitarian assistance, food, water, medicine so that people can be sustained
medicine so that people can be sustained and you know bodies of children would be
and you know bodies of children would be giving the strength in order not to die
giving the strength in order not to die from famine. These important steps need
from famine. These important steps need to take place immediately and also the
to take place immediately and also the exchange of uh uh you know detaininees
exchange of uh uh you know detaininees and hostages. Uh the hundreds and maybe
and hostages. Uh the hundreds and maybe the thousands of Palestinian prisoners
the thousands of Palestinian prisoners who will be returning to their loved
who will be returning to their loved ones. Their stories need to be told.
ones. Their stories need to be told. They are human beings. they have stories
They are human beings. they have stories their parents and their you know
their parents and their you know families suffered immensely during the
families suffered immensely during the years of their captivity and in jail. So
years of their captivity and in jail. So that that's another thing that will be
that that's another thing that will be put in place and they withdraw all of
put in place and they withdraw all of the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip. I
the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip. I know at this stage they withdrew to a
know at this stage they withdrew to a certain lines but they have to withdraw
certain lines but they have to withdraw completely from the Gaza Strip and we
completely from the Gaza Strip and we need to begin the process of
need to begin the process of reconstruction of Gaza. All these things
reconstruction of Gaza. All these things are the immediate things that we need to
are the immediate things that we need to uh deal with. They are clear things.
uh deal with. They are clear things. There are no disagreement over them
There are no disagreement over them and then we need to be ready for moving
and then we need to be ready for moving into the following stages with all of
into the following stages with all of its complexities and lack of clarity and
its complexities and lack of clarity and try to navigate through them in a
try to navigate through them in a comprehensive way. Not only thinking of
comprehensive way. Not only thinking of one side but thinking of both sides. But
one side but thinking of both sides. But let let's just look ahead then because
let let's just look ahead then because in the end this this Trump peace plan
in the end this this Trump peace plan envisages this board of peace running
envisages this board of peace running Gaza with people like Tony Blair, the
Gaza with people like Tony Blair, the former British prime minister,
former British prime minister, effectively running Gaza and Hamas out
effectively running Gaza and Hamas out of power. How do you see all of that
of power. How do you see all of that happening in the future? Is Hamas
happening in the future? Is Hamas completely finished as a governing
completely finished as a governing force? Will it try to cling on, do you
force? Will it try to cling on, do you think? Will it try to cling on to its
think? Will it try to cling on to its weapons? Will it try to cling on to some
weapons? Will it try to cling on to some form of power in Gaza?
>> Well, we are uh clinging on on our national rights, the end of occupation,
national rights, the end of occupation, the independence of the state of
the independence of the state of Palestine, the Palestinian National
Palestine, the Palestinian National Authority, assuming its responsibility
Authority, assuming its responsibility in looking after its people, including
in looking after its people, including in the Gaza Strip. Some people are
in the Gaza Strip. Some people are focusing on other issues. We are
focusing on other issues. We are focusing on what is really connecting to
focusing on what is really connecting to the rights of our people. The eagerness
the rights of our people. The eagerness of our people to run our own affair.
of our people to run our own affair. Gaza is not a piece of land free for
Gaza is not a piece of land free for anyone to grab it. Gaza belong to the
anyone to grab it. Gaza belong to the Palestinian people in Gaza and the
Palestinian people in Gaza and the Palestinian people have leaders and they
Palestinian people have leaders and they have responsibilities and we are the
have responsibilities and we are the ones who are preparing and engaging on
ones who are preparing and engaging on the details of catering to our people
the details of catering to our people especially our people in the Gaza Strip.
especially our people in the Gaza Strip. >> Okay, Riyad Mansur, thank you so much
>> Okay, Riyad Mansur, thank you so much for your time. Really good to have you
for your time. Really good to have you with us on BBC News as Riyad Mansur,
with us on BBC News as Riyad Mansur, permanent observer.
permanent observer. >> Thank you for having me.
>> Thank you for having me. >> That's no problem. Thank you for having
>> That's no problem. Thank you for having us for being with us on the program.
us for being with us on the program. Observer
of the state of Palestine to the United Nations.
Nations. Well, now we can also uh speak to Olga
Well, now we can also uh speak to Olga Trevka who is spokesperson uh for the
Trevka who is spokesperson uh for the United Nations Aid Coordination Office
United Nations Aid Coordination Office who's currently in de Albala in Gaza.
who's currently in de Albala in Gaza. And thank you for being with us. Well, I
And thank you for being with us. Well, I suppose the big question now is how
suppose the big question now is how quickly can we get the uh the taps of
quickly can we get the uh the taps of aid turned on so that we get that flood
aid turned on so that we get that flood of aid into Gaza that the people there,
of aid into Gaza that the people there, tens of thousands of Palestinians so
tens of thousands of Palestinians so desperately need.
desperately need. >> Thank you very much, Ben. Yes, we are
>> Thank you very much, Ben. Yes, we are ready. We are ready to start as soon as
ready. We are ready to start as soon as conditions allow. And uh as we've said
conditions allow. And uh as we've said before, we need in order to flood Gaza
before, we need in order to flood Gaza with aid, we need additional crossings
with aid, we need additional crossings to be open. We need safe access. We need
to be open. We need safe access. We need visas for our staff. We need um again um
visas for our staff. We need um again um guarantees of unfettered and unimpeded
guarantees of unfettered and unimpeded access and unrestricted flow of aid into
access and unrestricted flow of aid into Gaza. So we have uh 170,000 metric tons
Gaza. So we have uh 170,000 metric tons of shelter supplies of food, medicine,
of shelter supplies of food, medicine, and everything that people need here to
and everything that people need here to uh to meet their needs. um and and all
uh to meet their needs. um and and all of these things can be easily loaded on
of these things can be easily loaded on the trucks and come in to Gaza as soon
the trucks and come in to Gaza as soon as um these enablers are in place. So
as um these enablers are in place. So >> when do you think that will be because
>> when do you think that will be because obviously every day is crucial. We know
obviously every day is crucial. We know that people are suffering in famine-like
that people are suffering in famine-like conditions and have been for a long time
conditions and have been for a long time now and they are desperate for supplies.
now and they are desperate for supplies. So when do you think those truckloads
So when do you think those truckloads are going to start rolling in?
>> Exactly. that is extremely urgent and we are hoping that it will start
are hoping that it will start immediately. Um obviously the uh the
immediately. Um obviously the uh the announcement of the start uh of the
announcement of the start uh of the ceasefire being in effect took uh place
ceasefire being in effect took uh place at noon. Uh it was announced that it
at noon. Uh it was announced that it took effect at noon today and we're
took effect at noon today and we're hoping that uh in the coming hours um at
hoping that uh in the coming hours um at the latest days uh we will have um we
the latest days uh we will have um we will have uh aid flowing freely into
will have uh aid flowing freely into Gaza. And do you think you have enough
Gaza. And do you think you have enough supplies in place, enough stocks to get
supplies in place, enough stocks to get in there in the initial phase of this
in there in the initial phase of this sort of flooding of aid into Gaza?
sort of flooding of aid into Gaza? >> So yes, we have enough and we will have
>> So yes, we have enough and we will have more in the pipeline. Um as this this
more in the pipeline. Um as this this begins, the process begins. Uh we as uh
begins, the process begins. Uh we as uh we have said before, we have a plan for
we have said before, we have a plan for the first 60 days to target really the
the first 60 days to target really the most vulnerable people and ensure that
most vulnerable people and ensure that uh things like um food access, medicine,
uh things like um food access, medicine, shelter assistance, um water and
shelter assistance, um water and sanitation assistance is um is targeted
sanitation assistance is um is targeted directly at these most vulnerable
directly at these most vulnerable people. And uh we have uh mechanisms in
people. And uh we have uh mechanisms in place to ensure that um this is directed
place to ensure that um this is directed directly to them. And um obviously this
directly to them. And um obviously this will have to be a continuous process
will have to be a continuous process because the needs here are immense and
because the needs here are immense and everybody is in need of humanitarian
everybody is in need of humanitarian assistance. But our our priority right
assistance. But our our priority right now is to get this going and to reach
now is to get this going and to reach the most vulnerable first who need it
the most vulnerable first who need it obviously most urgently.
obviously most urgently. >> Okay. Okay. Well, thank you very much
>> Okay. Okay. Well, thank you very much for being with us. That's Olga Cheriff,
for being with us. That's Olga Cheriff, spokesperson for the United Nations Aid
spokesperson for the United Nations Aid Coordination Office talking to us from
Coordination Office talking to us from de Albala.
de Albala. >> So, a lot of moving parts, a lot to
>> So, a lot of moving parts, a lot to discuss. Who better than with our
discuss. Who better than with our international editor Jeremy Bowen.
international editor Jeremy Bowen. Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look,
Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look, we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about
we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about the next possible moves for the UN. They
the next possible moves for the UN. They are ready to get aid in. We've just
are ready to get aid in. We've just heard from Professor Soul, the UN
heard from Professor Soul, the UN special reperator on human rights, who's
special reperator on human rights, who's saying that the the plan of Donald Trump
saying that the the plan of Donald Trump is pretty vague. There are still things
is pretty vague. There are still things that really need to be nailed down and
that really need to be nailed down and ultimately we're still seeing plumes of
ultimately we're still seeing plumes of smoke across Gaza. Just help us to
smoke across Gaza. Just help us to unpick all of this.
unpick all of this. >> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I think that's absolutely the case.
think that's absolutely the case. Whatever people are saying uh and maybe
Whatever people are saying uh and maybe the next 24 hours or so that is going to
the next 24 hours or so that is going to happen that they will stop those
happen that they will stop those strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back and that's probably why they're
and that's probably why they're continuing them. In terms of this all
continuing them. In terms of this all goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that was that he put out a week or two ago.
was that he put out a week or two ago. And the thing about it is that if you
And the thing about it is that if you look at it, there is very little detail.
look at it, there is very little detail. There isn't just a lack of detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail. There's ambiguity. There's there some
There's ambiguity. There's there some things even seem quite contradictory
things even seem quite contradictory inside it. So the really big diplomatic
inside it. So the really big diplomatic challenge now that they've done the
challenge now that they've done the first phase or agreed to that and it's
first phase or agreed to that and it's going to unfold over the next couple of
going to unfold over the next couple of days seems pretty certain is is filling
days seems pretty certain is is filling in all of those gaps. And that is the
in all of those gaps. And that is the difficult stuff because ambiguity is
difficult stuff because ambiguity is something that we agree
something that we agree but when it comes to actually
but when it comes to actually implementing you need hard uh deals.
implementing you need hard uh deals. And that's a really important point
And that's a really important point because we are quite unclear when it
because we are quite unclear when it comes to a timeline for a transfer of
comes to a timeline for a transfer of authority, how the governance mechanism
authority, how the governance mechanism will even work across Gaza. Who is even
will even work across Gaza. Who is even involved in that, Jeremy?
involved in that, Jeremy? >> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in
>> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in the 20point plan, there are various
the 20point plan, there are various aspirational things and there is they've
aspirational things and there is they've said that here's the structure. There'll
said that here's the structure. There'll be this council of peace on the top. Uh
be this council of peace on the top. Uh Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony
Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony Blair is going to be involved as well.
Blair is going to be involved as well. Um and then there's going to be some
Um and then there's going to be some kind of technocratic institution and
kind of technocratic institution and there will be some kind of international
there will be some kind of international form. There have to be a lot of very um
form. There have to be a lot of very um hard details worked out and and that's
hard details worked out and and that's the tough thing. Uh and that things have
the tough thing. Uh and that things have to happen too like a UN security council
to happen too like a UN security council resolution to authorize the presence of
resolution to authorize the presence of these foreign troops there. I don't
these foreign troops there. I don't think that um Arab or Muslim countries
think that um Arab or Muslim countries are going to really want to get involved
are going to really want to get involved in something that legally would be uh an
in something that legally would be uh an illegal operation lacking that kind of
illegal operation lacking that kind of legitimacy that you get from a security
legitimacy that you get from a security council resolution. I think they could
council resolution. I think they could get the resolution, but it takes time
get the resolution, but it takes time and with the difficulties in Gaza and
and with the difficulties in Gaza and the complexity of things, maybe they
the complexity of things, maybe they don't have indefinite amounts of time.
don't have indefinite amounts of time. And on that point, of course, aid
And on that point, of course, aid getting in is absolutely critical in
getting in is absolutely critical in that first stage uh given the the
that first stage uh given the the famine, given the humanitarian uh issues
famine, given the humanitarian uh issues there, the acute malnutrition. But what
there, the acute malnutrition. But what about the rebuilding? Because we see the
about the rebuilding? Because we see the absolute devastation across Gaza. Is
absolute devastation across Gaza. Is there even any idea of who will be
there even any idea of who will be undertaking that the contracts that
undertaking that the contracts that potentially will be implemented to to
potentially will be implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even
get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even clear on that, are we, Jeremy?
clear on that, are we, Jeremy? No, that's a long way off. That's a long
No, that's a long way off. That's a long way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
way off. Uh there's there's, you know, hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble apart from anything else. I think that
apart from anything else. I think that that will have to wait quite a while
that will have to wait quite a while because first of all what they need to
because first of all what they need to do is to get some stability for more
do is to get some stability for more than two million people almost all of
than two million people almost all of whom have been displaced on multiple
whom have been displaced on multiple occasions who it was already with the
occasions who it was already with the entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny
entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny piece of land was already one of the
piece of land was already one of the most densely populated places in the
most densely populated places in the world and now more than 2 million people
world and now more than 2 million people have been pushed into a fraction of it
have been pushed into a fraction of it by the IDF by the Israeli military.
by the IDF by the Israeli military. country. So question mark, how to what
country. So question mark, how to what extent will they be allowed to go back
extent will they be allowed to go back to where they came from? What about what
to where they came from? What about what happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel seems to want to stay in that particular
seems to want to stay in that particular area. There's pressure inside the
area. There's pressure inside the Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't think that's going to be happening.
think that's going to be happening. Certainly not as yet. And they're very
Certainly not as yet. And they're very disappointed that it's not. But it's not
disappointed that it's not. But it's not off the agenda. So there are lots of
off the agenda. So there are lots of things in the future in the immediate
things in the future in the immediate future that we don't know about and the
future that we don't know about and the challenge is going to be to try and deal
challenge is going to be to try and deal with some of these ambiguities and
with some of these ambiguities and uncertainties and come out with a
uncertainties and come out with a tangible diplomatic agreement which you
tangible diplomatic agreement which you know Trump is not a details man. He's
know Trump is not a details man. He's been a bulldozer pushing this through.
been a bulldozer pushing this through. Getting to the detail will take a
Getting to the detail will take a sustained diplomatic effort and
sustained diplomatic effort and agreements. It's not something that
agreements. It's not something that necessarily can be imposed in the same
necessarily can be imposed in the same way that he actually said with, you
way that he actually said with, you know, after the 9th of September attacks
know, after the 9th of September attacks on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in Doha by the Israelis. That's that
Doha by the Israelis. That's that clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his hand massively. And the consequences
hand massively. And the consequences that he's dealing with now is that Trump
that he's dealing with now is that Trump has gone in there because attacking
has gone in there because attacking Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got in there and he's grabbed him by the
in there and he's grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is
scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is going to the table and you're going to
going to the table and you're going to stay there until there is a deal based
stay there until there is a deal based on my 20 points." Now, that has
on my 20 points." Now, that has happened, but what happens next, the
happened, but what happens next, the detailed stuff very difficult to
detailed stuff very difficult to achieve.
achieve. >> Let's bring in Professor Ben Soul, who's
>> Let's bring in Professor Ben Soul, who's a UN special reporter on human rights
a UN special reporter on human rights and counterterrorism. And Professor
and counterterrorism. And Professor Soul, when it comes to the first stages,
Soul, when it comes to the first stages, we're we're awaiting the concrete
we're we're awaiting the concrete ceasefire to start, but I guess when it
ceasefire to start, but I guess when it comes to the next stages, the Israeli
comes to the next stages, the Israeli troops withdrawing to a particular line,
troops withdrawing to a particular line, meaning that they'll still have control
meaning that they'll still have control of around 53% of the Gaza Strip. What do
of around 53% of the Gaza Strip. What do we understand as to how that potentially
we understand as to how that potentially will look in practice on the ground in
will look in practice on the ground in Gaza?
Gaza? Uh good to be with you and I I think
Uh good to be with you and I I think lots can go wrong in this plan.
lots can go wrong in this plan. Everybody is absolutely relieved that
Everybody is absolutely relieved that the killing should stop very soon and
the killing should stop very soon and that the hostages will be released and
that the hostages will be released and arbitrarily pal arbitrarily detained
arbitrarily pal arbitrarily detained Palestinians will be released. But this
Palestinians will be released. But this is a very complex plan with lots of
is a very complex plan with lots of moving parts. It depends upon the
moving parts. It depends upon the goodwill of and good faith of both Hamas
goodwill of and good faith of both Hamas and Israel and the credibility of the US
and Israel and the credibility of the US and enforcing the parties to to live up
and enforcing the parties to to live up to their bargains. Uh so I think it's
to their bargains. Uh so I think it's very early days yet to say whether this
very early days yet to say whether this will work uh whether the plan will stick
will work uh whether the plan will stick and there's so much in the 20 points the
and there's so much in the 20 points the other points and the next phases of this
other points and the next phases of this plan that are so vague uh and that don't
plan that are so vague uh and that don't in certain respects comply with
in certain respects comply with international law that I think uh in the
international law that I think uh in the longer term we could be in for a
longer term we could be in for a potential resumption of conflict and
potential resumption of conflict and violence. So talk us through the aspects
violence. So talk us through the aspects that potentially do jar with
that potentially do jar with international law because we know that
international law because we know that part of this plan is the US moving
part of this plan is the US moving troops already based in the Middle East
troops already based in the Middle East to Israel to coordinate the the
to Israel to coordinate the the multinational force which will monitor
multinational force which will monitor the ceasefire as and when it does come
the ceasefire as and when it does come into place. Are we basically effectively
into place. Are we basically effectively trans moving from an Israeli force
trans moving from an Israeli force within Gaza to a multinational one? and
within Gaza to a multinational one? and is that within international law?
is that within international law? >> So at the root cause of this conflict is
>> So at the root cause of this conflict is the failure of the international
the failure of the international community to enforce the Palestinians
community to enforce the Palestinians right to self-determination and
right to self-determination and statethood for many many decades. Uh the
statethood for many many decades. Uh the Palestinians were promised a state about
Palestinians were promised a state about a century ago actually and although
a century ago actually and although Israel got one many years ago uh the
Israel got one many years ago uh the Palestinians right has been denied and
Palestinians right has been denied and this plan doesn't fix that. There are
this plan doesn't fix that. There are some vague aspirational references to
some vague aspirational references to self-determination, but there are no
self-determination, but there are no concrete benchmarks or guarantees that
concrete benchmarks or guarantees that the Palestinians will get their own
the Palestinians will get their own independent state free of any kind of
independent state free of any kind of foreign occupation Israeli. And of
foreign occupation Israeli. And of course, here the Israelis will partially
course, here the Israelis will partially continue to occupy uh Palestine uh and
continue to occupy uh Palestine uh and or or some other international
or or some other international occupation because remember this plan is
occupation because remember this plan is not so far endorsed by the UN Security
not so far endorsed by the UN Security Council. It's not an international
Council. It's not an international peacekeeping uh force of United Nations
peacekeeping uh force of United Nations personnel. Uh it will be a US-led
personnel. Uh it will be a US-led occupation of Palestinian territory. Uh
occupation of Palestinian territory. Uh now, of course, the International Court
now, of course, the International Court of Justice just last year said the
of Justice just last year said the Palestinians have a right of
Palestinians have a right of self-determination. Israel must withdraw
self-determination. Israel must withdraw as soon as possible from the Palestinian
as soon as possible from the Palestinian territories. And the court wasn't
territories. And the court wasn't suggesting that it's somehow up to the
suggesting that it's somehow up to the United States to uh come in and impose
United States to uh come in and impose its own occupation in place of the
its own occupation in place of the Israelis.
Israelis. >> Arguably though, if the international
>> Arguably though, if the international community, if the UN haven't been able
community, if the UN haven't been able to reach this moment and it's the US
to reach this moment and it's the US that's pushing it, is there any kind of
that's pushing it, is there any kind of leeway within um international law to
leeway within um international law to facilitate this or is this a a breach of
facilitate this or is this a a breach of those guidelines from the international
those guidelines from the international community?
community? So the reason the United Nations
So the reason the United Nations Security Council has not been able to
Security Council has not been able to act in this situation is precisely
act in this situation is precisely because of the United States and its
because of the United States and its threat of a veto or its actual exercise
threat of a veto or its actual exercise of its veto power to prevent collective
of its veto power to prevent collective action uh to resolve the Palestine
action uh to resolve the Palestine question. So this is the fault of the
question. So this is the fault of the United States. Uh in addition, of
United States. Uh in addition, of course, President Trump's been in power
course, President Trump's been in power for almost a year. uh he's been
for almost a year. uh he's been supplying weapons and ammunition to
supplying weapons and ammunition to Israel to continue committing
Israel to continue committing international crimes in Gaza for almost
international crimes in Gaza for almost a year. Uh so at any point he could have
a year. Uh so at any point he could have turned off the tap of weapons uh and uh
turned off the tap of weapons uh and uh stopped the Israeli occupation much much
stopped the Israeli occupation much much earlier. The other problem in this of
earlier. The other problem in this of course is that there is no timeline for
course is that there is no timeline for transfer of authority to pal genuine
transfer of authority to pal genuine Palestinian representative governance.
Palestinian representative governance. uh the 20point plan. Although there are
uh the 20point plan. Although there are 20 points, not one of them mentions uh
20 points, not one of them mentions uh accountability and justice for
accountability and justice for international crimes at a time when the
international crimes at a time when the International Criminal Court has
International Criminal Court has indicted Israeli leaders for
indicted Israeli leaders for international crimes, when the
international crimes, when the International Court of Justice is
International Court of Justice is considering considering a case alleging
considering considering a case alleging genocide against Israel. Uh and quite to
genocide against Israel. Uh and quite to the contrary, the the peace plan uh
the contrary, the the peace plan uh gives blanket amnesties to Hamas members
gives blanket amnesties to Hamas members uh for any international crimes that
uh for any international crimes that they may have committed. Uh so this is
they may have committed. Uh so this is denying justice and again fueling one of
denying justice and again fueling one of the underlying drivers uh of terrorist
the underlying drivers uh of terrorist violence uh and resistance to Israeli
violence uh and resistance to Israeli occupation in Palestine.
Well, let's show you once again the scene live then in Gaza. And we have
scene live then in Gaza. And we have been watching for several hours now a
been watching for several hours now a steady stream of people, Palestinians
steady stream of people, Palestinians walking along that narrow road in the
walking along that narrow road in the Gaza Strip along the coast back to Gaza
Gaza Strip along the coast back to Gaza City which had been under that ferocious
City which had been under that ferocious Israeli bombardment. But now there's a
Israeli bombardment. But now there's a ceasefire. They are going back to their
ceasefire. They are going back to their homes or what is left of their homes.
homes or what is left of their homes. And the Israeli military has posted on
And the Israeli military has posted on social media that the ceasefire
social media that the ceasefire agreement ratified by the government on
agreement ratified by the government on Thursday evening came into effect at
Thursday evening came into effect at midday local time. That's a few hours
midday local time. That's a few hours ago. Now, it said its troops are
ago. Now, it said its troops are positioning themselves along the updated
positioning themselves along the updated deployment lines under the ceasefire
deployment lines under the ceasefire agreement. BBC Verify has been examining
agreement. BBC Verify has been examining videos showing Israeli troops pulling
videos showing Israeli troops pulling back and what it all means for those
back and what it all means for those Palestinians who are returning home.
Palestinians who are returning home. Merlin Thomas has more details.
Merlin Thomas has more details. >> Israeli troops have been withdrawing
>> Israeli troops have been withdrawing from Gaza on Friday morning and we've
from Gaza on Friday morning and we've been verifying video circulating on
been verifying video circulating on social media like this showing tanks and
social media like this showing tanks and heavy machinery approaching and crossing
heavy machinery approaching and crossing the western areas which is located on
the western areas which is located on the Gaza Strip's northern border. Now,
the Gaza Strip's northern border. Now, to recap, this is President Trump's
to recap, this is President Trump's latest plan for the first stage of
latest plan for the first stage of Israeli troop withdrawal. You can see
Israeli troop withdrawal. You can see that here in these yellow lines. Now, it
that here in these yellow lines. Now, it would mean Israel would still control
would mean Israel would still control about 55% of Gaza. Israel has already
about 55% of Gaza. Israel has already sliced the Gaza Strip into different
sliced the Gaza Strip into different military corridors, as you can see here
military corridors, as you can see here in these red lines. Now, used by the
in these red lines. Now, used by the army for access to move across Gaza. In
army for access to move across Gaza. In some places, you can see that the White
some places, you can see that the White House plan roughly matches up with some
House plan roughly matches up with some existing boundaries created by the
existing boundaries created by the Israeli military. It's worth emphasizing
Israeli military. It's worth emphasizing this is the latest map, but we don't
this is the latest map, but we don't know how closely this corresponds to
know how closely this corresponds to what was finally agreed, and that will
what was finally agreed, and that will be crucial to what happens to Israeli
be crucial to what happens to Israeli troops on the ground. Now, Palestinians
troops on the ground. Now, Palestinians will have the chance to return home to
will have the chance to return home to northern Gaza, where they were ordered
northern Gaza, where they were ordered to flee. But what's left for them to
to flee. But what's left for them to return to? Israel has destroyed swades
return to? Israel has destroyed swades of the strip. Whole neighborhoods in
of the strip. Whole neighborhoods in Gaza City have been wiped off the map.
Gaza City have been wiped off the map. For now, Palestinians and Israelis will
For now, Palestinians and Israelis will be waiting anxiously in the hopes that
be waiting anxiously in the hopes that the ceasefire agreement holds.
the ceasefire agreement holds. >> Well, will it hold? That is the key
>> Well, will it hold? That is the key question. That's Merlin Thomas
question. That's Merlin Thomas reporting. But let's talk to Mikey Kay,
reporting. But let's talk to Mikey Kay, former British military strategist and
former British military strategist and expert analyst on the BBC's Security
expert analyst on the BBC's Security Brief program. Mikey, that's the
Brief program. Mikey, that's the question. I mean, we're into the very
question. I mean, we're into the very early hours of this ceasefire. It's got
early hours of this ceasefire. It's got a long way to go, multiple phases and
a long way to go, multiple phases and stages. So far so good. But what do you
stages. So far so good. But what do you see as the sort of perils ahead
see as the sort of perils ahead potentially?
potentially? >> Yeah. I mean, Ben, the the next 72 hours
>> Yeah. I mean, Ben, the the next 72 hours is an incredibly delicate window for for
is an incredibly delicate window for for both parties. Um Hamas has until midday
both parties. Um Hamas has until midday local on Monday. Uh I think we've got
local on Monday. Uh I think we've got actually a map which shows the yellow
actually a map which shows the yellow line. If we could just bring that up uh
line. If we could just bring that up uh in terms of where the IDF are are
in terms of where the IDF are are pulling back to. Uh and you can see on
pulling back to. Uh and you can see on the graphic there, Ben, the yellow line.
the graphic there, Ben, the yellow line. It's it's it's quite a significant area
It's it's it's quite a significant area that they have to pull back from. Um and
that they have to pull back from. Um and while they're doing that, you know, the
while they're doing that, you know, the IDF are going to be um on edge when it
IDF are going to be um on edge when it comes to rules of engagement. Uh I've
comes to rules of engagement. Uh I've deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo,
deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo, Northern Ireland. You know, rules of
Northern Ireland. You know, rules of engagement are a cigarette paper thin um
engagement are a cigarette paper thin um decision between getting something right
decision between getting something right and getting something wrong. And if and
and getting something wrong. And if and and if they get something wrong uh and
and if they get something wrong uh and bearing in mind the tolerance of the IDF
bearing in mind the tolerance of the IDF for collateral damage, uh if they get
for collateral damage, uh if they get something wrong, it could torpedo the
something wrong, it could torpedo the process. Now I think we've got um
process. Now I think we've got um another graphic uh of a map as to where
another graphic uh of a map as to where the current locations or the the
the current locations or the the recently current locations of the IDF
recently current locations of the IDF have been. Now when you cross contrast
have been. Now when you cross contrast that the yellow line with that that
that the yellow line with that that that's significant movements of IDF
that's significant movements of IDF personnel pulling back from their
personnel pulling back from their frontline locations. Contrast that then
frontline locations. Contrast that then with, as you were speaking about
with, as you were speaking about earlier, the huge um displacement of of
earlier, the huge um displacement of of tens of thousands, if not hundreds of
tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of gardens who are now trying
thousands of gardens who are now trying to go back uh and identify where their
to go back uh and identify where their homes were. And I say were because 92%
homes were. And I say were because 92% of homes have been destroyed um since
of homes have been destroyed um since October the October the 7th. Now,
October the October the 7th. Now, they're going to go back and they're
they're going to go back and they're going to find rubble. Um and and
going to find rubble. Um and and importantly, what we call in the
importantly, what we call in the military, which is UXO, unexloded
military, which is UXO, unexloded ordinance. um there's going to be a lot
ordinance. um there's going to be a lot of unexloded audience in those areas
of unexloded audience in those areas which is going to be massively unsafe.
which is going to be massively unsafe. There's going to be no food or running
There's going to be no food or running water. There's going to be no
water. There's going to be no sanitation. And these are all conditions
sanitation. And these are all conditions that create massive instability,
that create massive instability, internal instability um within huge
internal instability um within huge migrations of populations.
migrations of populations. >> We talked about the IDF there. What are
>> We talked about the IDF there. What are the Israeli Defense Forces? What about
the Israeli Defense Forces? What about Hamas? Because part of this plan in the
Hamas? Because part of this plan in the longer term, which Hamas haven't really
longer term, which Hamas haven't really talked about, but they're supposed to
talked about, but they're supposed to disarm. Now, what are the chances of
disarm. Now, what are the chances of that? And who's going to monitor that
that? And who's going to monitor that disarmament process?
disarmament process? >> The the only legal framework that I'm
>> The the only legal framework that I'm aware of, and I was actually on an
aware of, and I was actually on an operation uh in Macedonia in 2001 called
operation uh in Macedonia in 2001 called Operation Essential Harvest, was called
Operation Essential Harvest, was called DDR, which is disarm, demobilize, and
DDR, which is disarm, demobilize, and reintegrate. Uh which basically is
reintegrate. Uh which basically is setting up weapons points where militia
setting up weapons points where militia can come in, drop their weapons off, and
can come in, drop their weapons off, and then they are assisted back into
then they are assisted back into civilian life with their dependence.
civilian life with their dependence. That obviously requires trust on both
That obviously requires trust on both parties, but that's the only legal
parties, but that's the only legal framework that I can identify at the
framework that I can identify at the moment. But that requires stability, not
moment. But that requires stability, not just uh on the ground level tactically,
just uh on the ground level tactically, but at the political levels as well with
but at the political levels as well with that sort of security stability for for
that sort of security stability for for allowment of those things to happen. And
allowment of those things to happen. And again go back to trust
again go back to trust >> just finally and briefly. I mean we saw
>> just finally and briefly. I mean we saw in in the hours counting down to the
in in the hours counting down to the ceasefire coming actually into into
ceasefire coming actually into into effect which is obviously an amazing day
effect which is obviously an amazing day and an amazing moment for Gaza. But
and an amazing moment for Gaza. But right up until the last minute the
right up until the last minute the Israeli military were attacking targets
Israeli military were attacking targets in Gaza, weren't they? And and we saw
in Gaza, weren't they? And and we saw more and more air strikes. Um so they
more and more air strikes. Um so they were using almost every conceivable
were using almost every conceivable minute before the ceasefire came into
minute before the ceasefire came into effect to keep on bombing.
effect to keep on bombing. >> Yeah. A significant amount of that
>> Yeah. A significant amount of that military activity was demolitions. Um
military activity was demolitions. Um some were were air strikes. Um but what
some were were air strikes. Um but what the IDF have been doing is is under the
the IDF have been doing is is under the pretense of what the IDF is saying which
pretense of what the IDF is saying which is um a lot of the infrastructure is
is um a lot of the infrastructure is being used for military assets by Hamas.
being used for military assets by Hamas. Um there have been air strikes going in.
Um there have been air strikes going in. There have been uh controlled
There have been uh controlled demolitions. But there's also been a
demolitions. But there's also been a really interesting concept of operation.
really interesting concept of operation. We call it a conop in the military where
We call it a conop in the military where the IDF have been using APCs, armored
the IDF have been using APCs, armored personnel carriers which are old,
personnel carriers which are old, obsolete. They've been filling them up
obsolete. They've been filling them up with explosives and then remotely
with explosives and then remotely putting them into areas and blowing them
putting them into areas and blowing them up next to high-rise buildings for
up next to high-rise buildings for example. Now the IDF sayings are being
example. Now the IDF sayings are being used as command centers or ops,
used as command centers or ops, observation posts as we call them in the
observation posts as we call them in the military. But actually, when you look at
military. But actually, when you look at the statistics of 60% of buildings that
the statistics of 60% of buildings that have been destroyed, 92% of homes that
have been destroyed, 92% of homes that have been destroyed, I would be very
have been destroyed, I would be very curious to look at the intelligence that
curious to look at the intelligence that the IDF were using to substantiate those
the IDF were using to substantiate those claims.
claims. >> Mikey, good to see you. Thank you very
>> Mikey, good to see you. Thank you very much indeed. You can hear more analysis
much indeed. You can hear more analysis from the BBC News Channel. Uh, in the
from the BBC News Channel. Uh, in the meantime, let's talk to the writer and
meantime, let's talk to the writer and former Israeli diplomat, Alan Pinkas,
former Israeli diplomat, Alan Pinkas, who joins us now. And Alon, thank you
who joins us now. And Alon, thank you very much for your time. Is this a
very much for your time. Is this a ceasefire agreement that you think can
ceasefire agreement that you think can work and can hold not just in this first
work and can hold not just in this first phase but in its later phases too?
phase but in its later phases too? >> Um no unfortunately not Ben and I'm
>> Um no unfortunately not Ben and I'm sorry to say that. Uh Mike Keep
sorry to say that. Uh Mike Keep described before me expertly uh what
described before me expertly uh what could go wrong and with the missing
could go wrong and with the missing ingredients that he also mentioned trust
ingredients that he also mentioned trust uh uh uh the ability to verify and
uh uh uh the ability to verify and goodwill all of which are conspicuously
goodwill all of which are conspicuously absent uh the the explosiveness of the
absent uh the the explosiveness of the situation the fragility is such that I
situation the fragility is such that I don't see this going on. Now, here's
don't see this going on. Now, here's why. To begin with, to you know, to to
why. To begin with, to you know, to to to to be somewhat optimistic uh about
to to be somewhat optimistic uh about this, the first phase will probably go
this, the first phase will probably go on smoothly, meaning that the next 72
on smoothly, meaning that the next 72 hours in which is the Hamas is uh
hours in which is the Hamas is uh releasing the 20 Israeli hostages who
releasing the 20 Israeli hostages who are alive and and hopefully all of the
are alive and and hopefully all of the 28 uh uh bodies of those who have been
28 uh uh bodies of those who have been killed or murdered. Um and in exchange,
killed or murdered. Um and in exchange, Israel is returning Palestinian. that'll
Israel is returning Palestinian. that'll probably go on smoothly. The the Israeli
probably go on smoothly. The the Israeli redeployment, although not complete and
redeployment, although not complete and full um as the agreement would mandate,
full um as the agreement would mandate, but it is sufficient to allow for this
but it is sufficient to allow for this to happen. But what remains be even
to happen. But what remains be even before the next phases that you just
before the next phases that you just alluded to is Kamas's disarmament. I
alluded to is Kamas's disarmament. I don't see them disarming and the chances
don't see them disarming and the chances of a miscalculation, a skirmish, a bad
of a miscalculation, a skirmish, a bad reaction, a a misunderstanding
reaction, a a misunderstanding um is is huge. You know, there is
um is is huge. You know, there is something called I'm sure Mikey who's
something called I'm sure Mikey who's not with us now knows the uh the term u
not with us now knows the uh the term u it's called the strategic uh uh I'm
it's called the strategic uh uh I'm sorry that yeah, the strategic uh
sorry that yeah, the strategic uh corporal, meaning that there's a
corporal, meaning that there's a corporal out there who's scared. He's 19
corporal out there who's scared. He's 19 years old. He's he wants to go home. He
years old. He's he wants to go home. He thinks it's all over. He's being shot at
thinks it's all over. He's being shot at because he's scared, because it's
because he's scared, because it's uncertain, because he don't know what's
uncertain, because he don't know what's going he doesn't know what's going on.
going he doesn't know what's going on. He starts shooting back like crazy.
He starts shooting back like crazy. Before you know it, there's a skirmish
Before you know it, there's a skirmish and and and the ripple effect creates uh
and and and the ripple effect creates uh the complete breakdown of the uh
the complete breakdown of the uh ceasefire and you have a strategic event
ceasefire and you have a strategic event just because of that one frightened uh
just because of that one frightened uh corporal. And so that's that's why I
corporal. And so that's that's why I think um practically the next phases are
think um practically the next phases are um extraordinarily difficult to
um extraordinarily difficult to implement. That's on the tactical ground
implement. That's on the tactical ground level. Then there's the political level.
level. Then there's the political level. But that depends on your questions.
But that depends on your questions. >> Well, my question actually on that was
>> Well, my question actually on that was um on the political level, Donald Trump
um on the political level, Donald Trump is hugely invested in making this work,
is hugely invested in making this work, isn't he? And and you know, people are
isn't he? And and you know, people are saying he's bullied Netanyahu into this
saying he's bullied Netanyahu into this agreement, this ceasefire agreement. But
agreement, this ceasefire agreement. But surely he's gonna he's gonna see it
surely he's gonna he's gonna see it through, isn't he? Or he's going to try
through, isn't he? Or he's going to try to Donald Trump is going to put so much
to Donald Trump is going to put so much pressure on the Israeli side at least to
pressure on the Israeli side at least to make sure this does stick.
make sure this does stick. >> I'm not sure about that. Um, yes, he
>> I'm not sure about that. Um, yes, he bullied Netanyahu. Yes, he coerced
bullied Netanyahu. Yes, he coerced Netanyahu into this. Yes, he cornered
Netanyahu into this. Yes, he cornered him into endorsing this publicly. By the
him into endorsing this publicly. By the way, that there's a big uh uh that, you
way, that there's a big uh uh that, you know, people overlook this. the fact
know, people overlook this. the fact that he made Netanyahu stand up and
that he made Netanyahu stand up and endorse it last week in the at the White
endorse it last week in the at the White House in Washington that he made
House in Washington that he made Netanyahu stand up and publicly endorse
Netanyahu stand up and publicly endorse this rather than give him his word or
this rather than give him his word or his pledge or his consent in in in the
his pledge or his consent in in in the closed room which uh Trump's learning
closed room which uh Trump's learning curve has taught him um won't happen
curve has taught him um won't happen meaning's
meaning's credibility is such that you have to
credibility is such that you have to make him say this publicly
make him say this publicly um but you know the accolades the praise
um but you know the accolades the praise the uh uh the compliments uh um they're
the uh uh the compliments uh um they're done once phase one is over. The the
done once phase one is over. The the hostages are back. Everyone is thanking
hostages are back. Everyone is thanking Trump. Everyone is crediting Trump.
Trump. Everyone is crediting Trump. Everyone says like you and I right now,
Everyone says like you and I right now, it was his bullying. It was his
it was his bullying. It was his investment. It was his engagement. It
investment. It was his engagement. It was his commitment. But the next phases
was his commitment. But the next phases are almost intractable. They are very
are almost intractable. They are very difficult. They are ambiguous. They are
difficult. They are ambiguous. They are tedious. It's going to take time. There
tedious. It's going to take time. There are no accolades here. there there's no
are no accolades here. there there's no there are no compliments and we all know
there are no compliments and we all know what his attention span uh um is like
what his attention span uh um is like and so I I I think you just raised the
and so I I I think you just raised the most important question of them all Ben
most important question of them all Ben um and that is will he remain committed
um and that is will he remain committed and unfortunately based on precedent
and unfortunately based on precedent look at Ukraine for example I just don't
look at Ukraine for example I just don't see that happening
see that happening >> well we shall see thank you so much for
>> well we shall see thank you so much for being with us that's the writer and
being with us that's the writer and former Israeli diplomat Alan Pinkas
former Israeli diplomat Alan Pinkas thank
So, a lot of moving parts, a lot to discuss. Who better than with our
discuss. Who better than with our international editor, Jeremy Bowen.
international editor, Jeremy Bowen. Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look,
Jeremy, good to see you as always. Look, we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about
we've got uh Tom Fletcher talking about the next possible moves for the UN. They
the next possible moves for the UN. They are ready to get aid in. We've just
are ready to get aid in. We've just heard from Professor Soul, the UN
heard from Professor Soul, the UN special raptor on human rights, who's
special raptor on human rights, who's saying that the the plan of Donald Trump
saying that the the plan of Donald Trump is pretty vague. There are still things
is pretty vague. There are still things that really need to be nailed down, and
that really need to be nailed down, and ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of
ultimately, we're still seeing plumes of smoke across Gaza. Just help us to
smoke across Gaza. Just help us to unpick all of this.
unpick all of this. >> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um
>> Well, first of all, the ceasefire um clearly hasn't quite started yet. I
clearly hasn't quite started yet. I think that's absolutely the case,
think that's absolutely the case, whatever people are saying. uh and maybe
whatever people are saying. uh and maybe the next 24 hours or so that is going to
the next 24 hours or so that is going to happen that they will stop those
happen that they will stop those strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back
strikes. I think the IDF is pulling back and that's probably why they're
and that's probably why they're continuing them. In terms of this all
continuing them. In terms of this all goes back to the Trump 20point plan that
goes back to the Trump 20point plan that was that he put out a week or two ago.
was that he put out a week or two ago. And the thing about it is that if you
And the thing about it is that if you look at it, there is very little detail.
look at it, there is very little detail. There isn't just a lack of detail.
There isn't just a lack of detail. There's ambiguity. There's there some
There's ambiguity. There's there some things even seem quite contradictory
things even seem quite contradictory inside it. So the really big diplomatic
inside it. So the really big diplomatic challenge now that they've done the
challenge now that they've done the first phase or agreed to that and it's
first phase or agreed to that and it's going to unfold over the next couple of
going to unfold over the next couple of days seems pretty certain is is filling
days seems pretty certain is is filling in all of those gaps. And that is the
in all of those gaps. And that is the difficult stuff because ambiguity is
difficult stuff because ambiguity is something that works quite well where
something that works quite well where you're trying to get people to agree
you're trying to get people to agree but when it comes to actually
but when it comes to actually implementing you need hard uh deals.
implementing you need hard uh deals. And that's a really important point
And that's a really important point because we are quite unclear when it
because we are quite unclear when it comes to a timeline for a transfer of
comes to a timeline for a transfer of authority, how the governance mechanism
authority, how the governance mechanism will even work across Gaza. Who is even
will even work across Gaza. Who is even involved in that, Jeremy?
involved in that, Jeremy? >> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in
>> Well, it hasn't been worked out. Uh in the 20point plan, there are various
the 20point plan, there are various aspirational things and there is they've
aspirational things and there is they've said that here's the structure. There'll
said that here's the structure. There'll be this council of piece on the top. Uh
be this council of piece on the top. Uh Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony
Donald Trump will be the chair. uh Tony Blair is going to be involved as well.
Blair is going to be involved as well. Um and then there's going to be some
Um and then there's going to be some kind of technocratic institution and
kind of technocratic institution and there will be some kind of international
there will be some kind of international force. It's very vague. There have to be
force. It's very vague. There have to be a lot of very um hard details worked out
a lot of very um hard details worked out and and that's the tough thing. Uh and
and and that's the tough thing. Uh and that things have to happen too like a UN
that things have to happen too like a UN Security Council resolution to authorize
Security Council resolution to authorize the presence of these foreign troops
the presence of these foreign troops there. I don't think that um Arab or
there. I don't think that um Arab or Muslim countries are going to really
Muslim countries are going to really want to get involved in something that
want to get involved in something that legally would be uh an illegal operation
legally would be uh an illegal operation lacking that kind of legitimacy that you
lacking that kind of legitimacy that you get from a security council resolution.
get from a security council resolution. I think they could get the resolution,
I think they could get the resolution, but it takes time and with the
but it takes time and with the difficulties in Gaza and the complexity
difficulties in Gaza and the complexity of things, maybe they don't have
of things, maybe they don't have indefinite amounts of time. And on that
indefinite amounts of time. And on that point, of course, aid getting in is
point, of course, aid getting in is absolutely critical in that first stage
absolutely critical in that first stage uh given the the famine, given the
uh given the the famine, given the humanitarian uh issues there, the acute
humanitarian uh issues there, the acute malnutrition. But what about the
malnutrition. But what about the rebuilding? Because we see the absolute
rebuilding? Because we see the absolute devastation across Gaza. Is there even
devastation across Gaza. Is there even any idea of who will be undertaking that
any idea of who will be undertaking that the contracts that potentially will be
the contracts that potentially will be implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt?
implemented to to get Gaza rebuilt? We're still not even clear on that, are
We're still not even clear on that, are we, Jeremy?
we, Jeremy? No, that's a long way off. That's a long
No, that's a long way off. That's a long way off. Uh there's there's, you know,
way off. Uh there's there's, you know, hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble
hundreds of thousands of tons of rubble apart from anything else. I think that
apart from anything else. I think that that will have to wait quite a while
that will have to wait quite a while because first of all what they need to
because first of all what they need to do is to get some stability for more
do is to get some stability for more than two million people almost all of
than two million people almost all of whom have been displaced on multiple
whom have been displaced on multiple occasions who it was already with the
occasions who it was already with the entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny
entire Gaza Strip uh which is a tiny piece of land was already one of the
piece of land was already one of the most densely populated places in the
most densely populated places in the world and now more than 2 million people
world and now more than 2 million people have been pushed into a fraction of it
have been pushed into a fraction of it by the IDF by the Israeli military.
by the IDF by the Israeli military. country. So, question mark, how to what
country. So, question mark, how to what extent will they be allowed to go back
extent will they be allowed to go back to where they came from? What about what
to where they came from? What about what happens in the north of Gaza? Israel
happens in the north of Gaza? Israel seems to want to stay in that particular
seems to want to stay in that particular area. There's pressure inside the
area. There's pressure inside the Israeli cabinet for uh permission to
Israeli cabinet for uh permission to allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't
allow Jews to settle there. Now, I don't think that's going to be happening.
think that's going to be happening. Certainly not as yet. And they're very
Certainly not as yet. And they're very disappointed that it's not. But it's not
disappointed that it's not. But it's not off the agenda. So there are lots of
off the agenda. So there are lots of things in the future in the immediate
things in the future in the immediate future that we don't know about and the
future that we don't know about and the challenge is going to be to try and deal
challenge is going to be to try and deal with some of these ambiguities and
with some of these ambiguities and uncertainties and come out with a
uncertainties and come out with a tangible diplomatic agreement which you
tangible diplomatic agreement which you know Trump is not a details man. He's
know Trump is not a details man. He's been a bulldozer pushing this through.
been a bulldozer pushing this through. Getting to the detail will take a
Getting to the detail will take a sustained diplomatic effort and
sustained diplomatic effort and agreements. It's not something that
agreements. It's not something that necessarily can be imposed in the same
necessarily can be imposed in the same way that he actually said with, you
way that he actually said with, you know, after the 9th of September attacks
know, after the 9th of September attacks on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in
on on Doha, on the Hamas leadership in Doha by the Israelis. That's that
Doha by the Israelis. That's that clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his
clearly was uh Netanyahu overplaying his hand massively. And the consequences
hand massively. And the consequences that he's dealing with now is that Trump
that he's dealing with now is that Trump has gone in there because attacking
has gone in there because attacking Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got
Qatar is bad for America. Trump has got in there and he's grabbed him by the
in there and he's grabbed him by the scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is
scruff of the neck and said, "Israel is going to the table and you're going to
going to the table and you're going to stay there until there is a deal based
stay there until there is a deal based on my 20 points." Now, that has
on my 20 points." Now, that has happened. But what happens next? The
happened. But what happens next? The detailed stuff very difficult to
detailed stuff very difficult to achieve.
So, a lot of moving parts, a lot to discuss. Who better than with our
discuss. Who better than with our international editor Jeremy Bowen.
Let's speak to Tom Fletcher, UN under secretary general for humanitarian
secretary general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief
affairs and emergency relief coordinator. He's speaking to us from
coordinator. He's speaking to us from Riyad in Saudi Arabia. Tom, good
Riyad in Saudi Arabia. Tom, good morning.
morning. >> Good morning, Ammo.
>> Good morning, Ammo. >> Uh let's just do a little bit on your
>> Uh let's just do a little bit on your understanding of the situation before we
understanding of the situation before we get into the plans that you must have
get into the plans that you must have for the next uh month or so. Um,
for the next uh month or so. Um, journalists are still prohibited by
journalists are still prohibited by Israel from entering Gaza. Have you
Israel from entering Gaza. Have you heard from your people in in Gaza in the
heard from your people in in Gaza in the past 90 minutes or so that the ceasefire
past 90 minutes or so that the ceasefire has begun and is holding?
has begun and is holding? So, I'm in very close touch with our
So, I'm in very close touch with our teams inside Gaza, but also with
teams inside Gaza, but also with survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and
survivors in Neros Kibbutz and and civilians in Gaza as well. They have
civilians in Gaza as well. They have long waited and hoped for this moment,
long waited and hoped for this moment, and we've worked hard to get here. It
and we've worked hard to get here. It must not be a full storm. We need to
must not be a full storm. We need to ensure that President Trump's plan isn't
ensure that President Trump's plan isn't blocked by hardliners on either side.
blocked by hardliners on either side. We're hearing there have been strikes
We're hearing there have been strikes overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was
overnight. I think Jeremy Bowen was reporting that about an hour ago as
reporting that about an hour ago as well. Today is crucial. We need the guns
well. Today is crucial. We need the guns to go silent and we need this ceasefire
to go silent and we need this ceasefire to be implemented.
to be implemented. >> And as far as you understand, Tom, who
>> And as far as you understand, Tom, who is now responsible for aid in Gaza.
is now responsible for aid in Gaza. >> So the UN has a plan. There's been
>> So the UN has a plan. There's been unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of
unimaginable suffering in Gaza. Tens of thousands killed, including over 18,000
thousands killed, including over 18,000 children. And that's a child killed on
children. And that's a child killed on average every hour for 2 years. And this
average every hour for 2 years. And this agreement's a real breakthrough. But the
agreement's a real breakthrough. But the real breakthrough will be when the
real breakthrough will be when the hostages are home, when children are
hostages are home, when children are fed, when they can sleep without terror
fed, when they can sleep without terror under a roof, when they're not bombed
under a roof, when they're not bombed and maimed, when they can be operated on
and maimed, when they can be operated on with anesthetics, when they can go back
with anesthetics, when they can go back to school, when families are reunited
to school, when families are reunited again. And so we will deliver that plan.
again. And so we will deliver that plan. We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid
We've got a 60-day plan to get that aid in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We
in to save lives at huge, huge scale. We have fought and beaten famines before
have fought and beaten famines before and we will do it again this time.
and we will do it again this time. >> Very very keen to talk to you about the
>> Very very keen to talk to you about the specifics of that plan in just a moment.
specifics of that plan in just a moment. But I've got one other practical
But I've got one other practical question if I may before we get there
question if I may before we get there which is how confident are you that the
which is how confident are you that the restrictions previously placed on aid
restrictions previously placed on aid deliveries by Israel who say that those
deliveries by Israel who say that those deliveries have been hijacked or
deliveries have been hijacked or vandalized that those restrictions will
vandalized that those restrictions will now be lifted.
now be lifted. So that's the big question for the
So that's the big question for the coming hours and days. And obviously
coming hours and days. And obviously we're in very close touch with the
we're in very close touch with the Israeli authorities uh in country to
Israeli authorities uh in country to make sure that those impediments, those
make sure that those impediments, those obstacles are now removed. We need all
obstacles are now removed. We need all the crossings open. We need safe routes
the crossings open. We need safe routes for our convoys. We need our people
for our convoys. We need our people protected. Hundreds of my colleagues
protected. Hundreds of my colleagues have been killed in the last two years.
have been killed in the last two years. We need the removal of red tape and
We need the removal of red tape and physical barriers. We need the power
physical barriers. We need the power back on to our bakeries, our hospitals,
back on to our bakeries, our hospitals, our water stations.
our water stations. It's a massive massive job ahead. We
It's a massive massive job ahead. We need access for our NGO colleagues and
need access for our NGO colleagues and partners as well. And as you say, we
partners as well. And as you say, we need the international media to get back
need the international media to get back in and tell the world what is happening
in and tell the world what is happening and hold us to account for saving lives.
and hold us to account for saving lives. >> Well, let's go through some of your
>> Well, let's go through some of your plans for the coming uh weeks and
plans for the coming uh weeks and months. Then let's do this in stages if
months. Then let's do this in stages if we can. First of all, we'll get to uh
we can. First of all, we'll get to uh the health system which has been
the health system which has been decimated and water and sanitation. But
decimated and water and sanitation. But first of all, just on food, uh I think
first of all, just on food, uh I think your understanding, if I'm correct me if
your understanding, if I'm correct me if I'm wrong, but that there is now uh
I'm wrong, but that there is now uh significant famine and acute
significant famine and acute malnutrition across the 2.1 million
malnutrition across the 2.1 million people of Gaza. What are your plans for
people of Gaza. What are your plans for increasing food deliveries immediately?
increasing food deliveries immediately? >> So that's objective number one. We've
>> So that's objective number one. We've got to get high nutrition food in. We've
got to get high nutrition food in. We've got to get hundreds of truckloads
got to get hundreds of truckloads convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with
convoy. We need to overwhelm Gaza with food and generosity and aid and help
food and generosity and aid and help right now. We need to get food to two
right now. We need to get food to two million people across the strip in every
million people across the strip in every part of Gaza, north and south. And we
part of Gaza, north and south. And we have those supplies prepositioned. We've
have those supplies prepositioned. We've got 172,000 metric tons of food,
got 172,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and tents all cleared, ready
medicine, and tents all cleared, ready to go in. The teams are on standby uh at
to go in. The teams are on standby uh at the crossings. The trucks are ready to
the crossings. The trucks are ready to roll. And we'll use our community
roll. And we'll use our community networks, our expertise, our experience
networks, our expertise, our experience to get that food where it is most
to get that food where it is most needed. What are your plans when it
needed. What are your plans when it comes to the health system?
comes to the health system? >> It's a massive massive challenge. I I
>> It's a massive massive challenge. I I saw for myself when I visited in in
saw for myself when I visited in in January the scale of destruction of the
January the scale of destruction of the hospitals and of the medical sector. And
hospitals and of the medical sector. And of course, it's got even worse uh since
of course, it's got even worse uh since then. So, we've got to rebuild those
then. So, we've got to rebuild those hospitals. We've got to get the
hospitals. We've got to get the essential anesthetics in painkillers in.
essential anesthetics in painkillers in. We've got to ensure that full medical
We've got to ensure that full medical supplies are flowing, but also medical
supplies are flowing, but also medical expertise because many of those working
expertise because many of those working nurses and doctors in that sector have
nurses and doctors in that sector have also been killed. It's a massive massive
also been killed. It's a massive massive task ahead that has to run alongside
task ahead that has to run alongside that effort to feed everyone in Gaza.
that effort to feed everyone in Gaza. >> And presumably one of the most urgent
>> And presumably one of the most urgent tasks concerns water and sanitation.
tasks concerns water and sanitation. >> We need to get water to 1.4 million
>> We need to get water to 1.4 million people as part of this plan. We also
people as part of this plan. We also need to help people prepare for the
need to help people prepare for the winter ahead. It's getting much colder
winter ahead. It's getting much colder already. And so we're looking to get
already. And so we're looking to get thousands of tents into Gaza in the
thousands of tents into Gaza in the coming days and weeks to give them that
coming days and weeks to give them that shelter, but also to give them the means
shelter, but also to give them the means to start to go back and begin to rebuild
to start to go back and begin to rebuild their lives. We also want to get the
their lives. We also want to get the kids back to school. So we have a plan
kids back to school. So we have a plan to get 700,000 school age kids back into
to get 700,000 school age kids back into temporary classrooms at least and
temporary classrooms at least and supplied with the the books and the the
supplied with the the books and the the pens and pencils to begin studying
pens and pencils to begin studying again. To what extent can you just
again. To what extent can you just explain your the principles you apply to
explain your the principles you apply to uh the extent to which Tom you will work
uh the extent to which Tom you will work with Hamas who remain in place who've
with Hamas who remain in place who've not been completely uh disarmed to get
not been completely uh disarmed to get that delivery to get those health
that delivery to get those health services to get the water and sanitation
services to get the water and sanitation through. What's your principled position
through. What's your principled position in terms of what you'll do with a group
in terms of what you'll do with a group which Israel says still needs to be
which Israel says still needs to be disarmed urgently. So our major priority
disarmed urgently. So our major priority is to get that aid to civilians where
is to get that aid to civilians where it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as
it's most needed. And here in Gaza, as everywhere, we have to work in a
everywhere, we have to work in a neutral, impartial, independent,
neutral, impartial, independent, principled way. Now, everywhere we work,
principled way. Now, everywhere we work, and you know, I've been on the phone
and you know, I've been on the phone today to colleagues in Sudan who are
today to colleagues in Sudan who are getting past armed groups in Sudan. We
getting past armed groups in Sudan. We always have to negotiate access with
always have to negotiate access with whoever is on the ground, but we
whoever is on the ground, but we shouldn't have to ask to get to
shouldn't have to ask to get to civilians. will work with everyone we
civilians. will work with everyone we need to work with to get past the
need to work with to get past the blockages, whether those are on the
blockages, whether those are on the border or whether those are the armed
border or whether those are the armed groups inside Gaza and reach the
groups inside Gaza and reach the communities, the the moms and dads and
communities, the the moms and dads and kids, the families who need this support
kids, the families who need this support right now and can't wait.
right now and can't wait. >> This is obviously an extremely uh
>> This is obviously an extremely uh precarious uh fast changing situation.
precarious uh fast changing situation. We're very grateful for your time
We're very grateful for your time speaking to us. Tom, what's your biggest
speaking to us. Tom, what's your biggest concern about what could go wrong in the
concern about what could go wrong in the coming days?
coming days? >> So, so many things can go wrong. You
>> So, so many things can go wrong. You know, the devil's in the detail of this.
know, the devil's in the detail of this. I think President Trump deserves real
I think President Trump deserves real credit for having got us to this point
credit for having got us to this point and having set up this framework for a
and having set up this framework for a ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we
ceasefire and potential peace. Now, we have to get the details right. We've got
have to get the details right. We've got to move on from this vicious cycle of of
to move on from this vicious cycle of of cruelty and terror and revenge and
cruelty and terror and revenge and complicity, indifference and and
complicity, indifference and and inhumity. And then we have to rebuild
inhumity. And then we have to rebuild Gaza and beyond that somehow start to
Gaza and beyond that somehow start to rebuild trust and hope between Israelis
rebuild trust and hope between Israelis and Palestinians. And that's going to be
and Palestinians. And that's going to be a really really long hard process. We've
a really really long hard process. We've got to rebuild confidence in
got to rebuild confidence in international law that's been so
international law that's been so corroded by this war. We've got to have
corroded by this war. We've got to have patience and we've got to have massive
patience and we've got to have massive generosity in the time ahead. And I hope
generosity in the time ahead. And I hope that people who've been moved by what
that people who've been moved by what they've seen in Gaza will now be moved
they've seen in Gaza will now be moved to be generous. We're only 25% funded on
to be generous. We're only 25% funded on our appeal. So please, you know, pick up
our appeal. So please, you know, pick up the phone, get online, visit
the phone, get online, visit crisisreief.un.org,
crisisreief.un.org, call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with
call your MP, and let's flood Gaza with aid.
aid. Thank you.
[Music] Hello, welcome to the program. Well,
Hello, welcome to the program. Well, thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are
thousands of Palestinians in Gaza are returning right now to their homes or
returning right now to their homes or what's left of their homes after Israel
what's left of their homes after Israel announced that a ceasefire is now in
announced that a ceasefire is now in effect in the territory. Well, we're
effect in the territory. Well, we're seeing live pictures of a steady stream
seeing live pictures of a steady stream of displaced Palestinians trudging north
of displaced Palestinians trudging north along the along the coast road back
along the along the coast road back towards Gaza City, which was until very
towards Gaza City, which was until very recently the scene of that ferocious
recently the scene of that ferocious Israeli ground offensive and aerial
Israeli ground offensive and aerial bombardment. Now, Israel says its forces
bombardment. Now, Israel says its forces have withdrawn the lines within Gaza
have withdrawn the lines within Gaza that are set out in the ceasefire
that are set out in the ceasefire agreement uh which was part of Donald
agreement uh which was part of Donald Trump's 20point peace plan. As for
Trump's 20point peace plan. As for Hamas, it now has until Monday morning
Hamas, it now has until Monday morning to release all Israeli hostages, 20 who
to release all Israeli hostages, 20 who are still believed to be alive and the
are still believed to be alive and the bodies of 28 others who are thought to
bodies of 28 others who are thought to be dead. Now, in return, Israel has
be dead. Now, in return, Israel has published today a list of 250
published today a list of 250 Palestinian prisoners and detainees who
Palestinian prisoners and detainees who are going to be released in exchange for
are going to be released in exchange for those hostages. Meanwhile, the Israeli
those hostages. Meanwhile, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said in a televised address today that
said in a televised address today that his country's troops will stay in Gaza
his country's troops will stay in Gaza to make sure that Hamas disarms in
to make sure that Hamas disarms in future stages of that ceasefire plan.
future stages of that ceasefire plan. Our first report now is from our Middle
Our first report now is from our Middle East correspondent, Hugo Basher.
East correspondent, Hugo Basher. >> By the road, they waited with a few
>> By the road, they waited with a few things that were now everything they
things that were now everything they had. Unsure if it was safe to return,
had. Unsure if it was safe to return, unsure if the bombs had stopped falling.
unsure if the bombs had stopped falling. The deal had brought them hope, but this
The deal had brought them hope, but this morning they still didn't know if had
morning they still didn't know if had finally brought them peace.
finally brought them peace. My son and I slept here last night on
My son and I slept here last night on the pavement in the cold, waiting to go
the pavement in the cold, waiting to go back home. Wy says, "Even if the house
back home. Wy says, "Even if the house is destroyed, even if it's just rubble,
is destroyed, even if it's just rubble, we'll go back, put up a tent, and return
we'll go back, put up a tent, and return to our people."
to our people." After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli
After hours of uncertainty, the Israeli military confirmed that the ceasefire
military confirmed that the ceasefire had started. Israeli troops have pulled
had started. Israeli troops have pulled back from some parts, but under the
back from some parts, but under the deal, they still occupy over half of
deal, they still occupy over half of Gaza.
Gaza. Many now going back, even by foot, to
Many now going back, even by foot, to mourn who's been lost and to start
mourn who's been lost and to start rebuilding what's been destroyed.
rebuilding what's been destroyed. In Israel, the countdown for the release
In Israel, the countdown for the release of the hostages has begun. 20 are
of the hostages has begun. 20 are believed to remain alive.
believed to remain alive. One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at
One of them is Sev Hafon, kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.
We hope that he returns safe and sound. And we wish that with God's help within
And we wish that with God's help within the next two or three days, we will see
the next two or three days, we will see him. We'll rejoice together with the
him. We'll rejoice together with the family. And we really hope that
family. And we really hope that everyone, not just him, returns safe and
everyone, not just him, returns safe and sound.
sound. >> It's still not clear when and where the
>> It's still not clear when and where the hostages will be freed. The deal broken
hostages will be freed. The deal broken by Trump is a major victory, but there's
by Trump is a major victory, but there's no clear plan for what happens in Gaza
no clear plan for what happens in Gaza next. The point now is that we need
next. The point now is that we need countries coming together to make peace
countries coming together to make peace a reality and to actually make it happen
a reality and to actually make it happen because this is still a fragile process,
because this is still a fragile process, but it's one that there is huge momentum
but it's one that there is huge momentum behind and huge commitment to. So, we
behind and huge commitment to. So, we have to make it work.
have to make it work. >> They can now walk without fearing the
>> They can now walk without fearing the war. But the Gaza they know is no longer
war. But the Gaza they know is no longer there and no one knows what the new Gaza
there and no one knows what the new Gaza will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News,
will be. Hugo Masha, BBC News, Jerusalem.
Jerusalem. Well, a short time ago, I spoke to our
Well, a short time ago, I spoke to our Gaza correspondent, Rushi Abu Alof,
Gaza correspondent, Rushi Abu Alof, who's now in Istanbul, and he told me of
who's now in Istanbul, and he told me of the feeling amongst those Gazan people
the feeling amongst those Gazan people heading back to their homes.
heading back to their homes. Well, the mood in Gaza since the morning
Well, the mood in Gaza since the morning was shifted from joy and happiness
was shifted from joy and happiness yesterday to some anger as the videos
yesterday to some anger as the videos emerge and those people who are walking
emerge and those people who are walking back in this huge march back to Gaza,
back in this huge march back to Gaza, they have received information that most
they have received information that most of them they won't found their homes
of them they won't found their homes anymore standing. We are expecting this
anymore standing. We are expecting this line to be h continue for days because
line to be h continue for days because if you if you look this very small dusty
if you if you look this very small dusty road it takes time for about 700,000
road it takes time for about 700,000 people who fled Gaza during the fighting
people who fled Gaza during the fighting to return back. Well, we heard that
to return back. Well, we heard that Israel would allow also the Salah road
Israel would allow also the Salah road which is proper more more bigger road to
which is proper more more bigger road to allow the people to to go back. But it
allow the people to to go back. But it is very angry mood because the the the
is very angry mood because the the the images and the picture from Gaza is is
images and the picture from Gaza is is is really showing that the three main
is really showing that the three main neighborhood Shehardan in the north,
neighborhood Shehardan in the north, Sabra and Zetun in the south and 90% of
Sabra and Zetun in the south and 90% of it is completely
it is completely destroyed and this walk is about 20
destroyed and this walk is about 20 kilometer and and very few people who
kilometer and and very few people who can afford this big payment of 900 pound
can afford this big payment of 900 pound to hire a truck small truck or a car.
to hire a truck small truck or a car. Most of the people they don't have the
Most of the people they don't have the money to to pay for this. So the the
money to to pay for this. So the the mood of celebration just changed to what
mood of celebration just changed to what we can see now live picture from there.
we can see now live picture from there. >> That's Rushi Abu Alufa our Gazi
>> That's Rushi Abu Alufa our Gazi correspondent and I've also been talking
correspondent and I've also been talking to our North America correspondent in
to our North America correspondent in Washington Nomia Ikbal who told me about
Washington Nomia Ikbal who told me about to Israel.
to Israel. >> He'll be going on Sunday. He plans to
>> He'll be going on Sunday. He plans to address the Israeli parliament in
address the Israeli parliament in Knesset. it will be somewhat of a
Knesset. it will be somewhat of a victory lap for him. Uh he will probably
victory lap for him. Uh he will probably also be looking to put more pressure on
also be looking to put more pressure on members of the Israeli government, the
members of the Israeli government, the farright members who whilst the the
farright members who whilst the the phase one of this deal has passed,
phase one of this deal has passed, they're still pushing back on on parts
they're still pushing back on on parts of the ceasefire. Uh there were talks
of the ceasefire. Uh there were talks about him potentially going to Gaza, but
about him potentially going to Gaza, but that we understand is not going to
that we understand is not going to happen. Uh there's still a long way to
happen. Uh there's still a long way to go obviously and you know just looking
go obviously and you know just looking at the pictures and what Rushi is saying
at the pictures and what Rushi is saying there uh the so many unanswered
there uh the so many unanswered questions yet. What happens to Gaza? Who
questions yet. What happens to Gaza? Who governs Gaza? How do people rebuild
governs Gaza? How do people rebuild their lives there? Um Mr. Trump is then
their lives there? Um Mr. Trump is then expected to go to Egypt to Shanal Shik
expected to go to Egypt to Shanal Shik where he's been invited by Egypt's
where he's been invited by Egypt's president to then take part in the
president to then take part in the official signing of the ceasefire. And
official signing of the ceasefire. And Mr. Trump is an optics guy. He knows
Mr. Trump is an optics guy. He knows that this is all about ultimately how it
that this is all about ultimately how it looks and it will be a moment for many
looks and it will be a moment for many pictures to be taken uh to record this
pictures to be taken uh to record this moment in history and I think if the
moment in history and I think if the ceasefire does fully pull off and there
ceasefire does fully pull off and there is enduring peace, this will definitely
is enduring peace, this will definitely be a very significant part of his
be a very significant part of his legacy.
legacy. >> He definitely is an optics guy and one
>> He definitely is an optics guy and one of the optics he was hoping for was a
of the optics he was hoping for was a picture of him holding the Nobel Peace
picture of him holding the Nobel Peace Prize and he hasn't got that. Um what
Prize and he hasn't got that. Um what what's been the reaction Nomia from the
what's been the reaction Nomia from the White House to that?
White House to that? Well, obviously they're not thrilled
Well, obviously they're not thrilled about it. I mean, the Nobel Peace Prize
about it. I mean, the Nobel Peace Prize has been this almost obsession, I would
has been this almost obsession, I would say, uh, for the Trump administration,
say, uh, for the Trump administration, for the Trump team, for Trump himself.
for the Trump team, for Trump himself. Uh, they released a statement, uh,
Uh, they released a statement, uh, saying that the the committee had put
saying that the the committee had put peace, sorry, politics over peace, but,
peace, sorry, politics over peace, but, you know, not to be a party people, I
you know, not to be a party people, I don't think there was any chance of him
don't think there was any chance of him getting it this year. He was nominated
getting it this year. He was nominated by the Pakistani government and by the
by the Pakistani government and by the Israeli prime minister in December, but
Israeli prime minister in December, but by the time this uh this first part of
by the time this uh this first part of this the the ceasefire was announced,
this the the ceasefire was announced, the the committee had probably already
the the committee had probably already made their minds up. Um but I'm I'm I'm
made their minds up. Um but I'm I'm I'm sure that they will be hoping uh to try
sure that they will be hoping uh to try and get it next year.
and get it next year. >> That's Nomia Igbal there, our North
>> That's Nomia Igbal there, our North America correspondent. Uh well, let's
America correspondent. Uh well, let's also go now live to our chief
also go now live to our chief international correspondent Lee Ducet
international correspondent Lee Ducet who's in Jerusalem for us now and um
who's in Jerusalem for us now and um lease early days, very early days, but
lease early days, very early days, but this ceasefire seems to be holding.
this ceasefire seems to be holding. We're seeing thousands of Palestinians
We're seeing thousands of Palestinians heading back to their homes and then of
heading back to their homes and then of course the next stage which will be very
course the next stage which will be very dramatic, the release early next week of
dramatic, the release early next week of the hostages.
>> Yes, hour by hour things are slowly falling into place. the approval by the
falling into place. the approval by the Israeli security cabinet last night, the
Israeli security cabinet last night, the approval by the full cabinet in the
approval by the full cabinet in the early hours of the morning. Uh the
early hours of the morning. Uh the Israeli forces withdrawing to the
Israeli forces withdrawing to the approved lines by midday, ceasefire in
approved lines by midday, ceasefire in force. We are expecting the aid to start
force. We are expecting the aid to start going in in much bigger quantities and
going in in much bigger quantities and then you say is the hostage and hostage
then you say is the hostage and hostage and prisoner releases. We're also
and prisoner releases. We're also getting more details about a 200 US
getting more details about a 200 US soldiers who will be part of a
soldiers who will be part of a multinational task force and their job
multinational task force and their job will be to monitor this deal to ensure
will be to monitor this deal to ensure there are no violations and Arab states
there are no violations and Arab states including Egypt are going to play a
including Egypt are going to play a crucial role in all of this. They have
crucial role in all of this. They have been throughout the process. Let's cross
been throughout the process. Let's cross to Cairo to join Ambassador Tamim Halaf
to Cairo to join Ambassador Tamim Halaf who's the chief spokesperson for the
who's the chief spokesperson for the foreign ministry. Welcome to BBC News,
foreign ministry. Welcome to BBC News, Ambassador Halaf.
Ambassador Halaf. Uh, good to have you at least
Uh, good to have you at least >> the it seems we're still getting details
>> the it seems we're still getting details from Charal Shake that there's still
from Charal Shake that there's still some issues that haven't quite been
some issues that haven't quite been resolved that the Hamas is disputing
resolved that the Hamas is disputing some of the names on the prisoner list
some of the names on the prisoner list of that is to be released. Is the deal
of that is to be released. Is the deal completely done?
completely done? >> Yes, the the spirit is constructive. We
>> Yes, the the spirit is constructive. We are moving in the right direction. uh
are moving in the right direction. uh this is really a transformational uh
this is really a transformational uh inflection point in the Middle East. We
inflection point in the Middle East. We are moving towards a very constructive
are moving towards a very constructive and very uh positive. There's a lot of
and very uh positive. There's a lot of positivity in the talks and we are
positivity in the talks and we are moving in the right direction in a
moving in the right direction in a direction that is uh fulfilling the many
direction that is uh fulfilling the many promises and aspirations of millions of
promises and aspirations of millions of people across the world that
conflict ended. want to see an end of bloodshed and and to have peace. Uh this
bloodshed and and to have peace. Uh this is an significantly important agreement
is an significantly important agreement that as you rightly mentioned will
that as you rightly mentioned will mention will see the release of Israeli
mention will see the release of Israeli hostages of Palestinian detainees. Uh
hostages of Palestinian detainees. Uh Israel withdrawal and redeployment of
Israel withdrawal and redeployment of its forces in Gaza and of course and
its forces in Gaza and of course and more importantly uh to afford the
more importantly uh to afford the necessary humanitarian aid and medical
necessary humanitarian aid and medical supplies to the people in Gaza. So I can
supplies to the people in Gaza. So I can categorically tell you this is moving in
categorically tell you this is moving in the right direction. There is a spirit,
the right direction. There is a spirit, a constructive spirit and positivity
a constructive spirit and positivity that is hovering over Shah MMA and Egypt
that is hovering over Shah MMA and Egypt in general.
in general. Hamas has said that they have received
Hamas has said that they have received guarantees that the war will not resume.
guarantees that the war will not resume. Can you give us any more details about
Can you give us any more details about that because Egypt as a key mediator
that because Egypt as a key mediator would have been involved in getting
would have been involved in getting those assurances?
those assurances? >> I think all parties have have received
>> I think all parties have have received asurances that everything will fall into
asurances that everything will fall into place including from Hamas and also from
place including from Hamas and also from Israel. So yes again as I as I just
Israel. So yes again as I as I just mentioned earlier there are guarantees
mentioned earlier there are guarantees that are being provided. I think there
that are being provided. I think there is a general mood that everyone is
is a general mood that everyone is rising to the occasion. This is a
rising to the occasion. This is a significant inflection point in the
significant inflection point in the history of the Middle East and and and
history of the Middle East and and and in the conflict. So everyone is indeed
in the conflict. So everyone is indeed uh this is the moment of truth for
uh this is the moment of truth for everyone and it seems that all parties
everyone and it seems that all parties are rising to the occasion and the
are rising to the occasion and the implementation of the provisions of the
implementation of the provisions of the of the agreement is moving in the right
of the agreement is moving in the right direction.
direction. And what role is Egypt going to play
And what role is Egypt going to play going forward? We already hear that some
going forward? We already hear that some Egyptian uh forces are on the ground in
Egyptian uh forces are on the ground in Gaza. They've been helping to set up
Gaza. They've been helping to set up camps. You'll also be part of what's
camps. You'll also be part of what's being called a multinational
being called a multinational task force to ensure the deal isn't
task force to ensure the deal isn't violated. Can you take us through some
violated. Can you take us through some of the next the next steps of this
of the next the next steps of this process?
process? Well, well, first of all, we are in the
Well, well, first of all, we are in the initial phase of the agreement and as I
initial phase of the agreement and as I had mentioned, there are several
had mentioned, there are several elements of that initial agreement, but
elements of that initial agreement, but of course, there's going to be
of course, there's going to be sequential phases uh that we as we move
sequential phases uh that we as we move on will have to be implemented. There's
on will have to be implemented. There's a lot of issues that need to be
a lot of issues that need to be addressed including transitional
addressed including transitional governance and security arrangements as
governance and security arrangements as you rightly mentioned and of course uh
you rightly mentioned and of course uh rehabilitation and reconstruction of
rehabilitation and reconstruction of Gaza. all of these issues. Obviously,
Gaza. all of these issues. Obviously, Egypt will be playing a constructive and
Egypt will be playing a constructive and uh influential role as we have continued
uh influential role as we have continued to do and so obviously yes there are
to do and so obviously yes there are going to be some significant
going to be some significant discussions. The specifics and details
discussions. The specifics and details will be addressed with our American
will be addressed with our American partners, with our regional partners. A
partners, with our regional partners. A lot of specifics and details that will
lot of specifics and details that will be uh addressed in in in due course. But
be uh addressed in in in due course. But as of now, I think there's a lot of uh
as of now, I think there's a lot of uh interest to see the fulfillment of the
interest to see the fulfillment of the initial phase and hopefully that will
initial phase and hopefully that will build the necessary momentum to move on
build the necessary momentum to move on to the more detailed discussions of
to the more detailed discussions of ensuring stability in Gaza, ensuring the
ensuring stability in Gaza, ensuring the the security of Gaza and as well as the
the security of Gaza and as well as the issue of transitional governance, which
issue of transitional governance, which is incredibly important.
is incredibly important. >> What do you think will be the toughest
>> What do you think will be the toughest issue going forward? For example, Prime
issue going forward? For example, Prime Minister Netanyahu stressed again today
Minister Netanyahu stressed again today Hamas had to be disarmed. We've heard
Hamas had to be disarmed. We've heard from senior Hamas officials they're not
from senior Hamas officials they're not ready to give up their guns. Perhaps
ready to give up their guns. Perhaps it's an issue of heavy weapons versus
it's an issue of heavy weapons versus small arms. Is that in Egypt's view one
small arms. Is that in Egypt's view one of the toughest issues to address now in
of the toughest issues to address now in this next stage?
this next stage? >> Well, I think all of the issues are
>> Well, I think all of the issues are quite tough. They're all interconnected
quite tough. They're all interconnected in a way and I think they're all very
in a way and I think they're all very challenging issues. the question of of
challenging issues. the question of of the future governance of Gaza. But as
the future governance of Gaza. But as you rightly as you know we have some
you rightly as you know we have some perspectives of how this will happen of
perspectives of how this will happen of having Palestinian technocrats that are
having Palestinian technocrats that are going to be non-factional taking charge
going to be non-factional taking charge of Gaza temporarily but provisionally
of Gaza temporarily but provisionally before the Palestinian Authority can
before the Palestinian Authority can come and continue to govern in Gaza the
come and continue to govern in Gaza the way they did before in 2005. But
way they did before in 2005. But obviously there are security
obviously there are security arrangements. There's discussions
arrangements. There's discussions related to the international stability
related to the international stability force. But obviously there's a lot of
force. But obviously there's a lot of discussions that need to be made on the
discussions that need to be made on the issue of composition, the structure, the
issue of composition, the structure, the mandate of this force. And we believe
mandate of this force. And we believe that it needs to be mandated by the
that it needs to be mandated by the security council. So I don't think
security council. So I don't think there's an easy uh uh issue here to be
there's an easy uh uh issue here to be addressed. All of them are are quite uh
addressed. All of them are are quite uh complicated. They are complex but
complicated. They are complex but interconnected. I think with a positive
interconnected. I think with a positive momentum that has been brewing in the
momentum that has been brewing in the past few days, with a constructive
past few days, with a constructive spirit and with the incredible and and
spirit and with the incredible and and quite steadfast leadership of President
quite steadfast leadership of President Trump, this thing this these agreements
Trump, this thing this these agreements uh we can reach to consensual outcomes
uh we can reach to consensual outcomes on all of these issues.
on all of these issues. More immediately, u Egypt must be in
More immediately, u Egypt must be in overdrive trying to organize what's said
overdrive trying to organize what's said to be a signing ceremony on Monday in
to be a signing ceremony on Monday in Charal Shake. As we heard from our
Charal Shake. As we heard from our Washington correspondent, President
Washington correspondent, President Trump likes the optics. Is there
Trump likes the optics. Is there anything you can tell us about what kind
anything you can tell us about what kind of a summit it will be? Will other Arab
of a summit it will be? Will other Arab leaders be invited? Does it have a name?
leaders be invited? Does it have a name? What more can you tell us?
What more can you tell us? >> Well, there will be a public
>> Well, there will be a public announcement obviously with all of the
announcement obviously with all of the organizational details on the modalities
organizational details on the modalities related to that. So I will leave it up
related to that. So I will leave it up to the public announcement but obviously
to the public announcement but obviously the beginning of next week is going to
the beginning of next week is going to be a significant inflection point. This
be a significant inflection point. This is going to be really a transformational
is going to be really a transformational defining moment in the in in this
defining moment in the in in this conflict and hopefully it will be behind
conflict and hopefully it will be behind our backs. uh there is now glimmer of
our backs. uh there is now glimmer of hope and that this will pave the way for
hope and that this will pave the way for ensuring that we can cement peace and
ensuring that we can cement peace and ensure that we are moving forward in
ensure that we are moving forward in order to have peace and security in this
order to have peace and security in this region and engage in a process of
region and engage in a process of generational healing between
generational healing between Palestinians and Israelis hopefully in
Palestinians and Israelis hopefully in the in the long term.
>> Ambassador, thank you very much uh for joining us. We'll have all eyes on Egypt
joining us. We'll have all eyes on Egypt at least in the second part of the day
at least in the second part of the day on Monday and many the world over and
on Monday and many the world over and most of all in this region will hope
most of all in this region will hope that it's a day of ceremony and
that it's a day of ceremony and celebration and a real affirmation that
celebration and a real affirmation that this long sought after deal is on
this long sought after deal is on course. Thank you very much for joining
course. Thank you very much for joining us uh from Cairo. And there you go, uh,
us uh from Cairo. And there you go, uh, Ben, not many details released, and
Ben, not many details released, and perhaps that is the way. There has to be
perhaps that is the way. There has to be an official announcement, but I would
an official announcement, but I would imagine it's often the case when an
imagine it's often the case when an American president comes to the region
American president comes to the region that other Arab leaders gather at the
that other Arab leaders gather at the same point so that President Trump can
same point so that President Trump can thank all of the people who, and there
thank all of the people who, and there are many who have been behind uh, this
are many who have been behind uh, this deal. So there will be a lot of as
deal. So there will be a lot of as President Trump likes to say a lot of
President Trump likes to say a lot of those made for television moments on
those made for television moments on Monday but hopefully most importantly of
Monday but hopefully most importantly of all that ceasefire will hold on the
all that ceasefire will hold on the ground on the ground in Gaza and the
ground on the ground in Gaza and the humanitarian aid will flow and there
humanitarian aid will flow and there will be some really emotional reunions.
will be some really emotional reunions. Yes indeed, Lee. Thank you so much, Lee
Yes indeed, Lee. Thank you so much, Lee Det there, our chief international
Det there, our chief international correspondent live in Jerusalem. And
correspondent live in Jerusalem. And earlier I spoke to Riyad Manser, who's
earlier I spoke to Riyad Manser, who's permanent observer of the state of
permanent observer of the state of Palestine to the United Nations and
Palestine to the United Nations and asked him about the ceasefire agreement
asked him about the ceasefire agreement currently now in place.
currently now in place. >> Uh yes, I am optimistic. Thank you for
>> Uh yes, I am optimistic. Thank you for having me. I admire and I was moved by
having me. I admire and I was moved by this massive river of Palestinians
this massive river of Palestinians returning to their homes in the north in
returning to their homes in the north in the Gaza Strip. This is uh it happened
the Gaza Strip. This is uh it happened at the beginning of the year when the
at the beginning of the year when the ceasefire was announced on 19th of
ceasefire was announced on 19th of January and they returned and they are
January and they returned and they are returning again and they are determined
returning again and they are determined to go back to their houses to clean up
to go back to their houses to clean up and to begin the reconstruction and to
and to begin the reconstruction and to set up tents. You cannot but admire and
set up tents. You cannot but admire and be moved by the resiliency of the
be moved by the resiliency of the Palestinian people.
Palestinian people. Well, it is a very moving site there and
Well, it is a very moving site there and we can see those pictures of that
we can see those pictures of that continuing stream of humanity really as
continuing stream of humanity really as the Palestinians head back to Gaza City
the Palestinians head back to Gaza City to try to find uh what is left of their
to try to find uh what is left of their homes. But can I ask you Ramans I mean
homes. But can I ask you Ramans I mean what do you think in the longer term
what do you think in the longer term this is just the first phase of the
this is just the first phase of the ceasefire plan but later on the plan
ceasefire plan but later on the plan says that Hamas has to disarm. Now, the
says that Hamas has to disarm. Now, the Israeli prime minister has said Israeli
Israeli prime minister has said Israeli troops will stay in Gaza until Hamas
troops will stay in Gaza until Hamas does disarm. Do you see that happening?
>> Well, let us first of all deal with the details of what was agreed upon. Uh the
details of what was agreed upon. Uh the uh people are returning to their homes
uh people are returning to their homes in the northern part. Uh they need
in the northern part. Uh they need massive humanitarian assistance and I
massive humanitarian assistance and I listened to Mr. Fletcher in your uh
listened to Mr. Fletcher in your uh earlier program in which he said that
earlier program in which he said that they have thousands of truckloads of
they have thousands of truckloads of humanitarian assistance and they want to
humanitarian assistance and they want to flood the Gaza strip with needed food,
flood the Gaza strip with needed food, water, medicine so that people can be
water, medicine so that people can be sustained and you know bodies of
sustained and you know bodies of children would be giving the strength in
children would be giving the strength in order not to die from famine. These
order not to die from famine. These important steps need to take place
important steps need to take place immediately and also the exchange of uh
immediately and also the exchange of uh uh you know detinees and hostages. Uh
uh you know detinees and hostages. Uh the hundreds and maybe the thousands of
the hundreds and maybe the thousands of Palestinian prisoners who will be
Palestinian prisoners who will be returning to their loved ones. Their
returning to their loved ones. Their stories need to be told. They're human
stories need to be told. They're human beings. they have stories their parents
beings. they have stories their parents and their you know families suffered
and their you know families suffered immensely during the years of their
immensely during the years of their captivity and in jail. So that that's
captivity and in jail. So that that's another thing that will be put in place
another thing that will be put in place and the withdrawal of the Israeli army
and the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip. I know at this
from the Gaza Strip. I know at this stage they withdrew to a certain lines
stage they withdrew to a certain lines but they have to withdraw completely
but they have to withdraw completely from the Gaza Strip and we need to begin
from the Gaza Strip and we need to begin the process of reconstruction of Gaza.
The first stage of the deal was the movement of the IDF, Israel's military,
movement of the IDF, Israel's military, from their positions to an agreed
from their positions to an agreed ceasefire line this morning. It leaves
ceasefire line this morning. It leaves the IDF in control of just over half of
the IDF in control of just over half of Gaza. The end of the deal would see the
Gaza. The end of the deal would see the military stationed just inside Gaza
military stationed just inside Gaza inside a slim buffer zone, but that is
inside a slim buffer zone, but that is some way away and Hamas must, according
some way away and Hamas must, according to the deal signed, disarm before then.
to the deal signed, disarm before then. Retired left tenant colonel Peter Lerner
Retired left tenant colonel Peter Lerner is a former IDF spokesman. We've heard
is a former IDF spokesman. We've heard from him many times in the early parts
from him many times in the early parts of the conflict. He is now director
of the conflict. He is now director general of international relations for
general of international relations for Histraut Labor Federation. Good
Histraut Labor Federation. Good afternoon, Lieutenant Colonel Lana.
afternoon, Lieutenant Colonel Lana. >> Thank you. Good afternoon. um the role
>> Thank you. Good afternoon. um the role of the IDF changed within hours. The war
of the IDF changed within hours. The war is over.
is over. >> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that
>> I'd say hallelujah to that. I think that the Israeli society has been um uh based
the Israeli society has been um uh based on all of the polls uh waiting for this
on all of the polls uh waiting for this moment to see a realization of a deal.
moment to see a realization of a deal. It was President Trump that was able to
It was President Trump that was able to realize that deal. And this morning what
realize that deal. And this morning what we've seen in the earlier today uh is
we've seen in the earlier today uh is the redeployment of the military forces
the redeployment of the military forces to the yellow line which is something we
to the yellow line which is something we have to get used to saying um into a new
have to get used to saying um into a new reality I would say defensive but it
reality I would say defensive but it won't be a passive line of defense. You
won't be a passive line of defense. You know if there are Hamas terrorists that
know if there are Hamas terrorists that we've seen in the last few days trying
we've seen in the last few days trying to um have a go at at the Israeli
to um have a go at at the Israeli military across the different positions
military across the different positions within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will
within the Gaza Strip. I expect we will see more of these types of actions in
see more of these types of actions in the coming days as well. So they will be
the coming days as well. So they will be defending, they will be on the line, but
defending, they will be on the line, but I think that all eyes will be indeed
I think that all eyes will be indeed until uh pointed to Monday, Monday
until uh pointed to Monday, Monday morning, Monday afternoon to see the
morning, Monday afternoon to see the hostages come home, to see President
hostages come home, to see President Trump's visit and to see the realization
Trump's visit and to see the realization of the hostage release and advance and I
of the hostage release and advance and I would say these types of things if they
would say these types of things if they actually do develop positively they can
actually do develop positively they can be confidence building measures in the
be confidence building measures in the advance of the entire process. Um, one
advance of the entire process. Um, one of the war aims of course was the
of the war aims of course was the release of the hostages. Another was to
release of the hostages. Another was to destroy Hamas. And arguably a disarmed
destroy Hamas. And arguably a disarmed Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will
Hamas is a destroyed Hamas. There will be questions to come about the nature of
be questions to come about the nature of that disarmament, heavy weapons versus
that disarmament, heavy weapons versus light weapons, quite what it actually
light weapons, quite what it actually means. Are you clear as to what
means. Are you clear as to what disarmament means?
disarmament means? So I think that the the military goals
So I think that the the military goals were a very very clear goal that Hamas
were a very very clear goal that Hamas no longer poses a threat to Israel, a
no longer poses a threat to Israel, a threat like October 7th. And I I was
threat like October 7th. And I I was listening just before we came on to the
listening just before we came on to the words of uh Brigadier General Effie
words of uh Brigadier General Effie Dein, the IDF spokesperson today. And he
Dein, the IDF spokesperson today. And he was very very clear that that threat
was very very clear that that threat that existed on October 7th absolutely
that existed on October 7th absolutely does not exist today. Of course, Hamas
does not exist today. Of course, Hamas still have weapons, still have
still have weapons, still have capabilities, but they're extremely
capabilities, but they're extremely diminished compared to what we've
diminished compared to what we've endured over the last two years. So, I
endured over the last two years. So, I would say moving forward, we need to m
would say moving forward, we need to m maintain that at least the level of
maintain that at least the level of Hamas does not increase. Um, and I would
Hamas does not increase. Um, and I would say we need to push forward and
say we need to push forward and implement the agreement to make sure
implement the agreement to make sure that Hamas does not have a role in
that Hamas does not have a role in rebuilding Gaza because we've seen what
rebuilding Gaza because we've seen what they've done with the power of
they've done with the power of governance. They build a military, they
governance. They build a military, they build a terrorist army, and they came
build a terrorist army, and they came into into the Israeli communities in
into into the Israeli communities in October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that
October 7th, 2023. For me, I think that the the most um moving uh moments over
the the most um moving uh moments over the last couple of days were the very
the last couple of days were the very very low lows of the memorial, the
very low lows of the memorial, the anniversary of October 7th just a few
anniversary of October 7th just a few days ago. And then the immediate flip
days ago. And then the immediate flip over the anticipation, the jubilation of
over the anticipation, the jubilation of the expectations of the deal being
the expectations of the deal being realized and for the hostages.
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