News Brief

(IsraelNN.com) Kadima Knesset Members have begun to voice opposition to surrendering the Golan Heights, which was restored to Israel after the Six-Day War in 1967. MK Yisrael Hasson said that a public referendum would have to decide the status of the Golan, where Syria previously has demanded that Israel withdraw as a condition for talks. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert announced Wednesday it is holding indirect negotiations with Damascus through Turkish mediators.

Kadima Housing Minister Zev Boim said he is against quitting the Golan Heights but did not rule out holding talks with Syria. He added that a condition on an agreement with Syria must be that it stop aiding Hizbullah terrorists and break its close ties with Iran.
 
Mertez MK Ran Cohen praised Prime Minister's announcement, stating that it was better to come late then never.