Middle East Debate: Ambassadors Shake Hands On Camera

19 September 2016, 18:35 | Updated: 20 September 2016, 16:18

As our compelling LBC Middle East Debate drew to a close, there a moment of hope as the Ambassadors spoke about new peace talks - and shook hands on camera.

Iain Dale hosted the special debate between Israel's Mark Regev and Palestine's Manuel Hassassian, in exchanges that were often sparky.

But at the end there was signs of real progress, as Regev said he would encourage his friend, the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak to the Palestinians if they were positive about talks.

"If [Manuel] gives me a green light, I will ring up the Prime Minister. He will take my phone call, I know that," said Regev. "Israelis are ready to start the peace process now.

"Let's get the peace process back on track."

Hassassian's response - after quibblign some of the finger points of past diplomatic relations - was clear.

"I will pass it to President Abbas. If I know President Abbas, he is the most pragmatic person that I have ever met in my life.

"He has been serious about peace since he became the President of Palestine."

Further sealing the deal, as Iain closed out the show and caught on the LBC cameras, was the moment when Regev and Hassassian shook hands.

You can see that all above - go to 3'54" to see the handshake.