The cross is used in predominantly Christian countries

Arguments about what emblems can represent the ICRC have prevented Israel from becoming a formal member since the birth of the state of Israel 51 years ago.

The organisation already allows two emblems, the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, to represent the movement and its many national branches.

But it has refused Israel's demands also to allow a red Star of David to represent the Israeli organisation, known as Magen David Adom.

In a compromise worked out in two days of talks with the Israeli and US Governments in Geneva, the ICRC says it is now ready to adopt an extra emblem in the shape of a red diamond, similar to the shape on playing cards.

Within this, the Israeli society can incorporate its star of David sign.

However, to become final, the plan must also win the approval of the board of Magen David Adom, and be accepted by the full International Red Cross movement.

Emotional power

The dispute illustrates the emotional power of such symbols.

A compromise could allow Eritrea to join

The Red Cross is charged under the Geneva Conventions with aiding all victims of war.

It has been cautious about any change, in view of the risks already posed to humanitarian workers by those in armed conflicts who fail to respect the well-known Red Cross or Red Crescent emblems.

But there is also mounting pressure in Israel and the US for concessions that will guarantee Israel's admission to the international body by the end of this year.

The compromise idea of a red diamond that can incorporate other emblems within it is also being seen as a possible solution for states such as Kazakstan and Eritrea, with both Christian and Muslim populations, which could then use the cross and the crescent together inside the red diamond.