What's next for Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks

Hello. As negotiators prepare to resume talks over a Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, diplomatic correspondent James Landale reflects on the gaps between the two adversaries' positions. On the Ukrainian front line, James Waterhouse talks to war-weary soldiers about the army's recruitment strategy. We're also looking at the catch in North Korea's catchy propaganda song, and at ongoing efforts to create a women-only space at an art museum in Australia.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

The gap facing Gaza ceasefire negotiators

Some of those who fled eastern Rafah on Monday headed to the nearby city of Khan Younis. Credit: Reuters

Negotiators for Israel and Hamas are set to resume ceasefire talks in Egypt. The Israeli government has highlighted at least four areas of disagreement with the terms proposed by Egypt and Qatar that Hamas accepted in an unexpected move on Tuesday morning.

What to make of the timing of Hamas's acceptance of the tentative deal?

The announcement by Hamas that it supports a particular draft could be an attempt to push Israel into making concessions and divide it from its allies. Israel's warnings about an imminent military operation in Rafah could be an attempt to extract better terms from Hamas.

Which issues will the talks focus on?

There is some disagreement over the detail of what should happen to whom and when and in what order. Israeli officials say, for example, that its female soldiers should be released earlier than envisaged. They also say the texts should be clearer that the first 33 hostages to be released must be alive and are worried about not having a veto over which Palestinian prisoners would be released. These are issues that could potentially be surmounted through negotiation.

What's the most challenging sticking point?

Israel's government wants the right to continue taking the fight to Hamas in the long run. By contrast, Hamas wants a permanent ceasefire. What is not clear is whether there is a way for Qatari, Egyptian and American negotiators to find a middle path through this.

THE BIG PICTURE

North Korea's viral propaganda hit song

Friendly Father's lyrics can offer insights on Kim Jong Un's changing rhetoric about his leadership. Credit: Korean Central Television

European countries are competing this week at the yearly Eurovision Song Contest. Entrants will be hoping their tunes match the viral power of a North Korean propaganda song that's become a hit on TikTok. With its Abba-coded synth-electric pop, the catchy melody hides a more sinister message.

And finally... in Australia

You'll surely remember the story of a museum in Tasmania that opened a gallery exclusively for women, and of the man who successfully sued the space under anti-discrimination laws. The saga is not over. Kirsha Kaechele, the artist behind the gallery, now plans to transform the velvet-clad lounge into a women's toilet and a church to keep it men-free - with a limited exception granted on Sundays.