Erstellt am: 7. 12. 2012 - 14:29 Uhr

Fatah and Hamas - reconciliation in sight?

Reality Check: Khaled Meshaal in Gaza, 3 way talks on Syria, Doha climate conference, South Sudan refugees, Swedish military model

Hamas leader in exile, Khaled Meshaal, visits Gaza today in a his first ever visit to the territory. The trip is partly to mark the 25th anniversary of Hamas, but also to celebrate the victory of Hamas in the recent conflict with Israel. He's expected to address a mass rally in Gaza City tomorrow.

Reuters

Kahled Meshaal was warmly welcomed when he entered the Gaza Strip via the Rafah crossing from Ehypt

The visit is also of particular significance as it will bring together the opposing Palestinian groups of Fatah and Hamas - with the potential for a fundamental change in the relationship between the two.

Irris Makler explains the historic significance of the visit, and the fascinating character of Khaled Meshaal.

Plans to oust Assad

The New York Times is reporting on an unurualy meeting in Dublin between the UN Special Envoy on Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov. It's thought a plan is being discussed to oust President Assad from power. Middle East expert, Rosemary Hollis, gives her interpretation of the events and their likely outcome.

Doha climate change talks end

Yet another round of UN Climate Change talks comes to a close today, and yet again no substantial progress has been made. Barbara Battisti reports from Doha.

South Sudan refugees

Florian Lems

A refugee camp in South Sudan

Florian Lems of Doctors Without Borders describes the plight of internally displaced people in South Sudan.

Swedish military model

In January, Austria will vote on whether to scrap compulsory military service. Sweden suspended conscription in 2010 and have found a voluntary professional army more efficient and cost effective. Former Swedish Defence Minister, Sten Tolgfors, explains how the changeover has worked.

FM4 Reality Check

Monday to Friday from 12.00 to 14.00, and after the show via Podcast or fm4.orf.at/realitycheck.