Today\'s edition of the weekly Cabinet meeting is dealing with the IDF\'s offensives in Judea and Samaria. Prime Minister Sharon began by reviewing the army\'s weekend activities, which included the capture of Palestinian territory in and around six Palestinian cities: Ramallah, Jenin, Beit Jala, Bethlehem, Tul Karem, and Kalkilyeh. Government officials, including Ariel Sharon, stressed repeatedly today that they have no plans to remain in \"Palestinian territory\" for an extended period.
Finance Minister Silvan Shalom said again that Israel has no choice but to encourage the PA to find itself another leader. He said that Israel should not allow Arafat to return to the area the next time he leaves, and instead of destroying the Palestinian Authority, should help it develop more \"moderate\" leaders.
Finance Minister Silvan Shalom said again that Israel has no choice but to encourage the PA to find itself another leader. He said that Israel should not allow Arafat to return to the area the next time he leaves, and instead of destroying the Palestinian Authority, should help it develop more \"moderate\" leaders.