The IDF mobilization around the Palestinian Authority city of Beit Jala continued today, following the onslaught of Palestinian fire into Gilo two mornings ago. Ground forces accompanied by tanks and combat helicopters assembled in the area Tuesday afternoon, but the planned attack was called off shortly before it was to begin. Defense Minister Binyamin Ben-Eliezer later explained that the cancellation was not due to American pressure, but rather to what some called \"Peres pressure\" and a PA promise to halt the fire. Ben-Eliezer said today that PA officials have been requesting to meet with him regarding the IDF mobilization around Beit Jala, but that he has refused to do so.