IDF and PA representatives were said to meet this afternoon in an attempt to end the ongoing siege around Arafat's Mukata complex in Ramallah. Israel demands that the 50 wanted terrorists inside - who are responsible for many fatal attacks against Israelis - give themselves up. Saeb Erekat of the PA, however, said that the Arab representatives did not show up to the planned meeting, in protest of Israel's refusal to allow Arafat to meet EU representative Migel Mauritinus.
Foreign Minister Shimon Peres says that Israel wants to end the matter "quickly and without bloodshed, but also without giving away free gifts." He met with Ambassadors from the U.S., Great Britain, and other countries today, many of whom grilled him on the purpose of the siege around the Mukata. Peres emphasized that Arafat is in no danger.
Foreign Minister Shimon Peres says that Israel wants to end the matter "quickly and without bloodshed, but also without giving away free gifts." He met with Ambassadors from the U.S., Great Britain, and other countries today, many of whom grilled him on the purpose of the siege around the Mukata. Peres emphasized that Arafat is in no danger.