Moves toward Mideast ceasefire after more than four years of bloodshed

THE Israeli military is willing to suspend operations against Palestinian militants if they call off attacks, Israeli leaders said yesterday, signalling a shift in position that could help pave the way toward a ceasefire after more than four years of fighting.

The announcement, by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Defence Minister Shaul Mofaz came as Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas said he was closing in on a truce deal with Islamic militants and called on Israel to respond positively to a truce. Mr Abbas has been in Gaza since last Tuesday pressuring militant groups to halt their attacks on Israeli targets. Mr Abbas hopes a truce will lead to the resumption of peace talks.

"We can say that there has been significant progress in the talks. Our differences have diminished, and therefore we are bound to reach an agreement very soon," Mr Abbas told Palestinian television.