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APN Urges Israel to Explore Hamas' Ceasefire Proposals

"There may be a moment of opportunity for Israel to save lives and stabilize its border with the Gaza Strip," said APN President and CEO Debra DeLee.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 24, 2007
CONTACT: Ori Nir - (202) 728-1893

Washington, D.C -Americans for Peace Now (APN) today urged the Israeli government not to rule out a ceasefire with Hamas in the Gaza Strip and to explore diplomatic ways to end the hostilities across its border with Gaza.

"There may be a moment of opportunity for Israel to save lives and stabilize its border with the Gaza Strip," said APN President and CEO Debra DeLee. "While Israel cannot be expected to unconditionally accept Hamas' proposals, it is well advised to explore them positively, with an eye on halting violence and saving lives. A ceasefire could also advance efforts to release the Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who was kidnapped into Gaza a year and a half ago," DeLee said.

Several official Hamas spokesmen in recent days offered a long-term ceasefire ("hudna") with Israel. Several members of the Israeli cabinet, including Transportation Minister Shaul Mofaz, National Infrastructures Minister Binyamin Ben Eliezer and Minister without Portfolio Ami Ayalon, all retired generals - spoke publicly in support of a negotiated ceasefire with Hamas. On Sunday, the cabinet discussed Hamas' proposals but did not decide whether to explore them.

"A diplomatic process that would lead to a stable ceasefire, beyond saving lives, could contribute to smoother, more credible peace negotiations between the Israeli government and Mahmoud Abbas' Palestinian Authority," DeLee said.

APN is a Jewish, Zionist organization dedicated to enhancing Israel's security through peace and to supporting the Israeli Peace Now movement.