[imra] Daily digest - Volume: 2 Issue: 1369 (15 messages)

imra Wed Apr 12 00:22:41 2006 Volume 2 : Issue 1369

In this issue of the imra daily Digest:

BACKGROUND INFO: Arrest of a Wanted Fatah
Operative, Murderer of an Israeli Citizen
Suspension of Security Coordination in the Jericho DCO
BACKGROUND INFO: Senior Tanzim Operative
Killed During Arrest Activity in Bethlehem
PCPO Poll: 69.20%:27.60% Conflict is
Israeli-Palestinian rather than between moderates
vs. violent extremists on both sides,
44.2% Hamas won because Islamic party
or doesn't recognize Israel.
Excerpts: Mubarak attacks Shiite loyalties.
Hamas adamant.10 April 2006
SHURAT HADIN'S JUNE 2006 MISSION
Text of Olmert interview in Time Magazine
[concedes retreat not to permanent border, only close
to what he "beleives" will be them]
American Embassy awards Givat Haviva
$350,000 to train community leaders in Arab sector
CABINET COMMUNIQUE
[Olmert Interim PM, PA is terrorist authority]
MEMRITV: Iran Defense Minister: We Have the
Capability to Make Shahab Missiles Like Candy
President Abbas Condemns Isolation of PNA,
Prepares for European Diplomatic Shuttle
French Official: France re-examining
direct budgetary aid to PA
Russia to Continue Sending Financial Aid to PNA
The forked tongue of Hamas: How it speaks
differently to Western and Arab media
MEMRI: Palestinian Foreign Minister Defends
"Martyrdom-Seeking Operations"

----------------------------------------------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: BACKGROUND INFO: Arrest of a Wanted Fatah
Operative, Murderer of an Israeli Citizen

April 9th 2006
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Attributed to "security sources" [Distributed by the IDF Spokesperson's
Office]

Arrest of a Fatah operative, murderer of an Israeli citizen on March 1st
2006

In a joint IDF and ISA activity early this morning, April 9th 2006, security
forces arrested wanted Fatah operative A'azam Zin A-Dinn, who admitted to
have carried out a shooting and stabbing attack against an Israeli citizen
on March 1st 2006. A-Dinn, aided by an additional Palestinian, arrived at a
gas station near the Israeli community of Migdalim, east of Ariel, and
murdered an Israeli citizen, Eldad Abir.

A-Dinn, 23, a wanted Fatah operative, resident of the village of Majdal Bani
Fadil near Nablus, was arrested at the Allenby crossing while attempting to
flee the country.

An additional wanted Palestinian, Hani Maztapa Hassin Zin A-Dinn, 35,
resident of the village of Majdal Bani Fadil, was arrested for planning the
terror attack and aiding the murderers after the attack.

In his questioning, A-Dinn stated that he had carried out the terror attack
in collaboration with A-Rahman Saliman Ali O'tman, 23, a wanted Fatah
operative, resident of the village of Majdal Bani Fadil after having been
approached by O'tmann and offered to murder a Jew with both A'azam and Hani
A-Dinn.

The three then decided to murder an Israeli citizen working in a gas station
near the Israeli community of Migdalim. A few
days prior to the attack the three had collected intelligence about the
station, including possible escape routes. The night before the attack,
A'azam and Abed Al-Rahaman composed their wills, stating that they were
planning to carry out an attack the following day.

Immediately following the shooting and stabbing attack, the two terrorists
escaped to Nablus where they hid for several days
before being smuggled to Jericho with the assistance of aides. They remained
in Jericho up until A-Dinn's attempt to flee the country.

In his questioning, A'azam stated that he had always, in his home, freely
expressed his wish to die a "martyr's" death. In addition, he stated that
after the attack, seeking refuge, A- Rahaman asked his brother to secure
them positions within the Palestinian Authority so as to receive protection
from Israel.

The weapons used in the shooting and stabbing of the Israeli citizen were
uncovered following the questioning of additional Palestinians who had been
involved in the attack. Additional operatives who aided the terrorists by
harboring them and concealing the murder weapons, residents of the village
of Majdal Bani Fadil, were arrested. An additional assault rifle and knife
used by the cell were uncovered during the operatives' arrest.

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: Suspension of Security Coordination in the Jericho DCO

April 9th 2006
IDF SPOKESPERSON ANNOUNCEMENT

Suspension of security coordination between Israeli and Palestinian security
officials in the Jericho DCO

In accordance with a decision made by the political echelon and in keeping
with its policy regarding coordination between Israeli and Palestinian
apparatuses, IDF officers from the Jericho District Coordination Office
notified their Palestinian counterparts today, April 9th 2006, that they
must leave their DCO offices in the Israeli community of Vered Jericho.

The DCO workers are due to leave the offices at noon tomorrow.

It is important to note that all civilian functions of the civil
administration will be unaffected by the change, which pertains to security
coordination alone..

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: BACKGROUND INFO: Senior Tanzim Operative
Killed During Arrest Activity in Bethlehem

April 9th 2006
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Attributed to "security sources" [Distributed by the IDF Spokesperson's
Office]

Senior Tanzim operative killed during arrest activity in Bethlehem

During a joint IDF and ISA activity in Bethlehem earlier today, April 9th
2006, to arrest Jaber Achres, a senior Tanzim operative in the city, forces
identified Achres exiting the building he was hiding in. Achres, who was
armed, began advancing rapidly towards the force while opening fire at them.
The force returned fire, killing him. An AK -47 assault rifle was found near
his body.

Achres was responsible for the planning and execution of numerous terror
attacks, including the killing of two soldiers near the "Tunnel Road"
checkpoint on November 18th, 2003.

Jaber Fuas Eid Achres, 26, originally a resident of the Gaza Strip and a
senior Tanzim operative in the city of Bethlehem, has been wanted by
security forces for the past three years for his involvement in the planning
and executing of numerous terror attacks against Israeli citizens,
infrastructure and military targets in the area of Bethlehem. Achres became
wanted after he carried out a shooting attack against IDF soldiers securing
the "Tunnel Road" checkpoint. Sgt. First Class Shlomi Baleski and Staff Sgt.
Shaul Lahav were killed in the attack.

Since the attack Achres had established his status as a senior member of the
Tanzim organization's infrastructure in Bethlehem.
There he was responsible for recruiting, operating and guiding the Tanzim
operatives.

Achres was involved in numerous attacks, which include:

1. Attempted launching of projectile rockets at the Gilo and Har Homa
neighborhoods in Jerusalem (2006).
2. Shooting attacks carried out in the area of Bethlehem and at the
neighborhoods of Gilo and Har Homa (2006).
3. Recruitment of terrorists and utilizing them for carrying out suicide
bombings. (2005-2006).
4. Manufacturing explosive belts. (2005-2006).
5. Detonation of explosive devices targeted at military
vehicles.(2005-2006).

It is important to note that Israeli security forces have transferred the
information to the Palestinian Authority and Palestinian security
apparatuses time and again, requesting that they arrest Jaber Achres and put
his terror activity to a halt but no action was taken.

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: PCPO Poll: 69.20%:27.60% Conflict is
Israeli-Palestinian rather than between moderates
vs. violent extremists on both sides,
44.2% Hamas won because Islamic party
or doesn't recognize Israel.

[IMRA: So much for one of the favorite line of liberal retreat supporters -
in particular foreign diplomats. 69.20%:27.60% Conflict is
Israeli-Palestinian rather than between moderates vs. violent extremists on
both sides. Also much of Hamas' victory no longer attributed to punishment
of PA but instead to Hamas - its nature and policies.]

Poll No. 152
Date: 10 April, 2006

VIEWS OF PEACE IN THE TERRITORIES
OF THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY
Trends and Attitudes

By PCPO

Key findings of the poll were:

A plurality (42.8%) believes that the media provide more attention to
extremist voices.

Around one-third (33.7%) believe a permanent peace agreement with the
Israeli can be achieved in the near future (within 4 years or less).

A substantial majority (50.5%) supports to various degrees the Palestinian
Independence Chart.

The Objective of the Poll:

The target of this poll is to examine the directions and inclinations of the
Palestinian people towards the peace process with Israel and how far the
ordinary citizen can impact this peace process. This poll, furthermore,
casts light on the significant role of the media in the Palestinian -
Israeli conflict and probes the public support for the Palestinian
Independence Chart and the Arab Peace Initiative based on the solution of
two states for two nations.

We hope that the gathered information would be of great benefit to all
parties concerned.

Introduction:

In the most recent poll conducted by the Palestinian Center for Public
Opinion (PCPO) in cooperation with " Souhtouna - Palestine, the One Voice
Initiative" during the period from March 22nd to 26th, 2006 under the
supervision of Dr. Nabil Kukali, a random sample of (677) Palestinian
adults, 18 years and older, representing the various demographic specimens
of the people living in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza
Strip, has been interviewed.

Dr. Fathi Darwish, Director of Souhtouna Palestine - One Voice Initiative,
said the most significant result this poll has revealed is that half of the
Palestinian people is supporting the Palestinian Independence Chart and the
Arab Peace Initiative based on the solution of two states for two nations.
"This emphasizes the desire of our Palestinian people to achieve a just and
comprehensive peace backed by the principle of two states for two nations
and the UN resolutions", Dr. Darwish added at his Ramallah office.

Dr. Kukali, Director of PCPO, from his side, said that about 43% of the
Palestinian people believe that the media provide more attention to
extremist voices rather than to moderate voices.

The Findings;[WB = West Bank, GS = Gaza Strip]

Q.1 Do you believe a permanent peace agreement with the Israelis can be
achieved in the near future (within 4 years of less)?

1. I am certain it is not possible.
WB:18.80%GS:28.00%Total:22.30%
2. I think it is not possible.
WB:53.80%GS:25.70%Total:43.10%
3. I think it is possible.
WB:21.20%GS:31.50%Total:25.10%
4. I am certain that it is possible.
WB:5.50%GS:13.60%Total:8.60%
5. I don't know or think differently.
WB:0.70%GS:1.20%Total:0.90%

Q.2 Do you believe or not believe that your personal actions can contribute
towards reaching a permanent peace agreement between Israel and the
Palestinians?

1. I am certain that I cannot impact the process.
WB:13.30%GS:18.70%Total:15.40%
2. I think I cannot impact the process.
WB:30.20%GS:27.20%Total:29.10%
3. Perhaps yes, perhaps no.
WB:28.60%GS:40.90%Total:33.20%
4. I think I can impact the process.
WB:23.30%GS:8.90%Total:17.90%
5. I am certain that I can impact the process.
WB:4.30%GS:2.70%Total:3.70%
6. I don't know or think differently.
WB:0.20%GS:1.60%Total:0.70%

Q.3 There are those who say this conflict is mainly a conflict of Israelis
vs. Palestinians, and there are those who say that the real conflict is
between the moderate majority that wants peace on both sides vis a vis
violent extremist groups that do not want peace. With which group do you
agree more?

1. with the perspective that the conflict is primarily between Israelis vs.
Palestinians.
WB:67.40%GS:72.30%Total:69.20%
2. with the perspective that the conflict is primarily between moderates vs.
violent extremists on both sides.
WB:31.70%GS:21.10%Total:27.60%
3. I don't know.
WB:1.00%GS:6.60%Total:3.20%

Q.4 Do you feel the media provides an accurate report of the reality or does
it accentuate and magnify extremist voices?

1. It provides an accurate report of the really on the ground.
WB:30.80%GS:41.40%Total:34.80%
2. It provides more attention to extremist voices.
WB:48.00%GS:34.40%Total:42.80%
3. It provides more attention to moderate voices.
WB:20.00%GS:12.50%Total:17.20%
4. I don't know.
WB:1.20%GS:11.70%Total:5.20%

Q.5 Have you heard about souhtouna - Palestine, the One Voice initiative,
the movement for peace and independence through non-violent empowerment of
citizens?

1. I am aware of One Voice - souhtouna.
WB:40.60%GS:17.10%Total:31.60%
2. I am not aware of One Voice - Souhtouna.
WB:58.70%GS:80.50%Total:67.10%
3. Don't know.
WB:0.70%GS:2.30%Total:1.30%

Q.6 Do you support, or not, the Palestinian Independence Chart and the Arab
Peace Initiative on the basis of two states for two nations?

1. Strongly support.WB:11.20%GS:9.30%Total:10.50%
2. Support.WB:44.80%GS:32.30%Total:40.00%
3. Hesitated.WB:28.10%GS:21.40%Total:25.60%
4. Oppose.WB:9.80%GS:17.90%Total:12.90%
5. Strongly oppose.WB:6.20%GS:18.70%Total:10.90%
6. Don't know.WB:-----GS:0.40%Total:0.10%

Q.7 Which reasons, you think, contributed to the victory of Hamas in the
legislative elections held on January 25th, 2006?

1. Attitude of Hamas of not recognizing Israel.
WB:8.60%GS:10.50%Total:9.30%
2. Hamas is an Islamic political party.
WB:37.00%GS:31.50%Total:34.90%
3. Corruption of Fateh.
WB:27.70%GS:35.40%Total:30.60%
4. Mismanagement of the Palestinian Authority.
WB:14.60%GS:18.30%Total:16.00%
5. No any progress in the peace process.
WB:12.20%GS:4.30%Total:9.20%
6. Don't know.WB:---GS:---Total:---

Methodology of the Survey Study:

"All interviews took place on the basis of random choices of respondents'
homes, i.e. face-to-face during different working hours, at least 5 hours a
day, including the evening time, in order to ensure proper representation of
those sub-groups of the population, which would otherwise be difficult to
reach and selecting one individual in each household using Last Birthday
Method. ", Mr. Elias Kukali, a staff member of the Research & Studies
Section at the PCPO, said. The choices were taken from a total of (156)
election sites, from which (117) sites are located in West Bank and (39)
sites in Gaza Strip according to the distribution of the Central Election
committee. These election sites were randomly chosen by using the method of
the simple random sample. These in turn were the beginning of the random
sample choice made from those regions in accordance with PCPO's long
experienced methodology. The margin of error was (+/-3.76%) at a
significance and confidence levels of (5%) and (95%) respectively.

Elias Kukali added "the percentage of female respondents was (49.3%) whereas
that of the male respondents reached (50.7%). He said the composition of the
sample according to the residential area was as follows: (62.0%) West Bank,
including East Jerusalem, and (38.0%) Gaza Strip. He further pointed out
that the allocation of the sample in respect of the type of residence was as
follows: (48.9%) city, (32.9%) village and (18.2%) refugee camp and that the
average age of the respondents was (34.6) years.

Contact Persons
Dr. Nabil Kukali Dr. Fathi
Darwish
Tel: 02 2774846 Tel: 02
2951379
Fax: 02 2774892 Fax: 02
2951382
Mobile: 0547 216643 / 0599 726878 Mobile: 0599 240 147
Email: kukali@p-ol.com Email:
info@onevoice.ps
Website: www.pcpo.ps

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: Excerpts: Mubarak attacks Shiite loyalties.
Hamas adamant.10 April 2006

Excerpts: Mubarak attacks Shiite loyalties. Hamas adamant.10 April 2006

QUOTES FROM TEXT:
"Mubarak told Al-Jazeera television that Shiites in Iraq and surrounding
states ' are mostly always
loyal to Iran and not the countries where they live'. "

"the crown of the head of state seems to have become to heavy for him to
carry"

"given that the majority of Iraqis are Shiite, such remarks are
tantamount to a rejection of a
empowered citizenry"

"the entire Egyptian nation is also weary of bearing the weight of his
presidency"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FULL TEXT:Editorial
One would think that Arab leaders, who already fear a spillover of violence
from Iraq, would avoid making remarks that could possibly stir sectarian
tensions. But on Saturday, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak told Al-Jazeera
television that Shiites in Iraq and surrounding states "are mostly always
loyal to Iran and not the countries where they live." Mubarak's offensive
remarks, which were roundly condemned by Iraq's top Sunni Arab, Kurdish and
Shiite politicians, also drew condemnation from leaders in Iran, Kuwait and
Lebanon.
Mubarak is not the first Arab head of state to publicly air his sectarian
fears. In December of 2004, Jordan's King Abdullah expressed concerns that
elections in Iraq would see the creation of a Shiite "crescent" of power,
with Shiite movements and governments stretching from Iran into Iraq, Syria,
Lebanon and the Gulf states. Such fears are not only hugely exaggerated, but
they reveal both ignorance and prejudice. And given that the majority of
Iraqis are Shiite, such remarks are tantamount to a rejection of an
empowered citizenry.
By making such remarks, the president of Egypt has reduced his towering
stature. Egypt's traditional role, as the most populous Arab nation and as
the host of the Arab League, has been to promote unity throughout the
region. But instead of promoting unity, Mubarak is fanning the flames of
sectarian division. Mubarak's remarks will probably further complicate
Iraq's political progress, which rests in the hands of the majority Shiite
Alliance. In the face of such open hostility from neighboring Sunni leaders,
how will they be convinced to share more power with Iraqi Sunnis and other
minorities?
Perhaps Mubarak's blundering remarks were a sign of strain. After 25 years
in office, the crown of the head of state seems to have become too heavy for
him to carry. Mubarak has had a respectable career during which he has
brought greater stability to Egypt, but now it seems that the hand at the
helm has stiffened. Five terms in office would wear any president down. But
it is not only Mubarak who is withered by the arduous role of leadership;
the entire Egyptian nation is also weary from bearing the weight of his
presidency. With no room for new and energetic leadership, Egypt's political
process has become stagnant, even as other political systems in the region
have become more vibrant.
Egypt ought to be leading the Arab world in its efforts to democratize and
empower citizens. For this reason, Mubarak ought to consider a review of his
comments, and for the sake of his nation, he ought to bring about a peaceful
transfer of power by calling for early presidential elections. In doing so,
he can relieve himself and his people of the burden of his leadership.

+++ARAB NEWS (Saudi) 10 March '06:"Editorial: Unenviable Situation"
QUOTES FROM TEXT:
"Hamas must thus seek ... urgent cash inflows. Help from Arab and Islamic
countries is paramount. ... if pledges are indeed met and whether they will
actually materialize in the end are all unknowns"
"[Hamas P.M.] Haniyeh remains defiant"
"Hamas has refused to accept 'principles of non-violence, recognition of
Israel, and respect for previous agreements between the parties' "
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXCERPTS:.

... Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas ... refusal to
recognize Israel or to accept peace agreements, leading the United States
and the EU to cut off hundreds of millions of dollars in crucial aid ... .
... Without foreign assistance, the Palestinian Authority will not be able
to pay the salaries of some 140,000 government workers. These salaries
support about one-third of the Palestinian population. ... .
Hamas must thus seek alternative routes for urgent cash inflows. Help from
Arab and Islamic countries is paramount. If and when such aid arrives, if
pledges are indeed met and whether they will actually materialize in the end
are all unknowns.
... Olmert now says he will not try to negotiate a peace deal with ...
Abbas because,... Abbas has lost out since Hamas' rise to power. This is the
first time that Olmert has stated clearly that he will not negotiate with
Abbas as long as Hamas does not do what the US and EU are telling it to do.
. . .
Hamas finds itself in a very unenviable, awkward and dangerous situation.
Having gained a renowned reputation for its invaluable social services
provided to the Palestinians - which helped it get elected - it now must
allay the fears of those who support it and their unease that its policies
will have the opposite effect, of bringing only poverty and maybe even
starvation.

Sue Lerner - Associate, IMRA

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: SHURAT HADIN'S JUNE 2006 MISSION

SHURAT HADIN'S JUNE 2006 MISSION TO EXPLORE THE CONTINUING TERRORIST THREAT
TO ISRAEL'S SURVIVAL

*Mossad Agents, Arab Undercover Operatives, Hamas Trials, Front-Line IDF
Positions*

Following the overwhelming successes of our nine prior "Ultimate Missions
To Israel," Shurat HaDin-Israel Law Center will host another high-impact
tour of Israel in early June 2006. The Ultimate Mission is a first hand
investigation of the challenges of the terrorist threat to Israel's
survival.

The Mission will be held on Monday, June 5 thru Monday, June 12, 2006.

Registration is still underway!

Shurat HaDin is inviting doctors, attorneys, accountants, programmers and
other professionals from around the world to participate in an intensive and
action-packed series of briefings and field tours with Israeli security,
military and intelligence officials. The Mission will explore the strategic
dangers to the Jewish state from Arab violence and Islamic extremism.

Mission participants will receive briefings from senior commanders of
Israel's intelligence and security services, as well as the other strategic
decision-makers who shape and lead Israel's multifaceted war on terrorism.

Moreover, attorneys will be able to receive Continuing Legal Education
credits for the trip if they register by May 1, 2006.

The Mission will also present a rich program of exciting recreational and
cultural events. The eight day program will include the following
highlights:

* Briefings by present and past officers in the IDF Intelligence and
Operations branches, including the senior commanders of the Shin Bet
security service and Mossad.

* An exhibition by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) undercover soldiers who carry
out targeted killings of Palestinian terrorists and deep penetration raids
in Arab territory.

* Observing the trial of Hamas terrorists in an IDF military court.

* Discussions with Israel's Arab agents who infiltrate the terrorist groups
and provide real-time intelligence.

* A first hand investigation of the controversial "security fence" that has
enraged the world.

* Intensive, hands-on tours of the front line military positions, the border
check-points and intelligence bases.

* Small airplane tour of the Galil, water activities on Lake Kinneret, a
cook-out barbecue and a Shabbat enjoying the rich religious and historic
wonders of Jerusalem's Old City.

"This is not your mother and father's Mission. Jam-packed with unusual and
in-depth views of what is really going on in Israel's ongoing war -- it is
a "find" for the novice and an eye opener for people who consider
themselves knowledgeable about the Middle East. Excellent accommodations
fabulous food, comfortable transportation and fellow travelers who are
menschen. Shurat HaDin are inspired leaders and Shabbat in Jerusalem is a
delight".

Beryl & Morris Dean Haverford, Pennsylvania

For More Information: info@israellawcenter.org

Tel.: (US) 212-591-0073 (ISRAEL) 03-736-1519

Full Itinerary & Registration: http://israellawcenter.org/itinerary.shtml

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: Text of Olmert interview in Time Magazine
[concedes retreat not to permanent border, only close
to what he "beleives" will be them]

Israel Should Not Be on the Forefront of a War Against Iran"

In an exclusive interview with TIME, Ehud Olmert, the Israeli prime minister
warns about the threat from Iran, praises President Bush and vows to press
ahead with West Bank withdrawals

By ROMESH RATNESAR

TIME Magazine: Is Ehud Olmert Feeling Lucky?
Posted Sunday, Apr. 09, 2006
www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1181672,00.html

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert met with TIME World Editor Romesh
Ratnesar for a two-hour interview at Olmert's home in Jerusalem. Here are
excerpts from their discussion.

TIME: Would Israel take military action to stop Iran's nuclear program?

Olmert: As the one who has to take the decision, I can tell you that I
genuinely don't think Israel should be on the forefront of this war. I don't
know why people think this is first and foremost a war for Israel. It's a
problem for every civilized country. Iran is a major threat to the
well-being of Europe and America just as much as it is for the state of
Israel. I don't think America can tolerate the idea of a leader of nation of
30 million people who can openly speak of the liquidation of another
country. And therefore it is incumbent upon America and Europeans to form a
strategy and implement it to remove this danger of unconventional weapons in
Iran. To assume that Israel would be the first to go into a military
confrontation with Iran represents a misunderstanding of this issue.

TIME:How often do you speak to President Bush?

Olmert: I've spoken to him maybe three times since I became Prime Minister.
There is a very strong emotional bond between the two of us, every time we
speak we both feel it deeply. I know how he feels and he (knows) how I feel.
I think it grew out of his first trip to Israel, when I hosted him in
Jerusalem. He knows that I like him. I very much depend on the understanding
and cooperation of President Bush. The reason I think (disengagement) can be
done is because of the trust and understanding we have for each other. In my
opinion President Bush will emerge in history as the person who had more
courage to change the Middle East than any person before him. I know the war
in Iraq is controversial in the States, but for us in the Middle East it has
made a great and significant impact. The decision of the President made an
enormous impact on the lives of Israelis, Palestinians, Jordanians-every
country who was the potential target of the aggression of Iraq and Saddam
Hussein. The sense of mission that Bush feels about war on terror is of
enormous significant. When I think from the perspective of an Israeli and
who is the partner, the natural partner who I speak with about fighting
terror, it's President Bush

TIME:You've said that you intend to begin a unilateral withdrawal from some
settlements in the West Bank, which goes further than even what Sharon said
he would do. Why are you pushing to do this now?

Olmert: I'm not certain that all those who are trying to be the authentic
interpreters of Sharon's legacy can say with great accuracy what he would
have done. When Arik collapsed, Hamas was not in power and the prospect of
possible negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority was
entirely different. This has changed as a result of Hamas coming to power.

To continue the same old rhetoric only because I have to think what would
Sharon have done is a mistake. I have to think about what is best to do
under present circumstances-what can be done, what ought to be done. If
there's one thing Sharon represented it's not so much the old thing than the
desire not to sit and do nothing. I'm sure that he would also have changed
the way he thinks if he witnessed these developments.

TIME: There's a lot of opposition to the plan from the settler community and
their supporters. Are you worried that your plan will split Israel?

Olmert:I believe that inside the population of settlers there is a
significant group that understand that the time has come for us to redraw
the lines. If we handle it with sufficient sensitivity, I believe that we
can avoid unnecessary eruptions of emotional reactions. And the plan is not
just about dismantling settlements-it's also aimed at focusing and moving
forward to augment the three major blocs of settlements in the West Bank.

TIME: Will the lines in place at the end of it be the political borders of
Israel?

Olmert: At least for a period of time. They will be very very close to what
may be the final borderlines. The idea is that we will be separated from the
overwhelming majority of Palestinians. The whole idea is to separate
Israelis from the Palestinians and to allow territorial contiguity for the
Palestinians from which they can take the necessary steps to build and
develop and independent Palestinian state alongside the state of Israel. I
guess if at some point afterward there will be negotiations to finalize
everything and in order to reach a comprehensive peace then maybe some
adjustments. But the lines I want to draw are very close to the lines that I
believe will become the political borders.

TIME: Would you consider going back to negotiations rather than continue
with the unilateral strategy? Do you see any prospect for negotiations with
Hamas if they moderate their rhetoric?

Olmert: They can't just change their rhetoric They need to change their
entire way of life, they need to change entirely their state of mind about
Israel's existence. It's so much deeper than rhetoric. To just believe that
if Ismail Haniyeh tomorrow starts using different words, that will make the
difference? No way. This is a typical fundamentalist, extremist religious
movement that does not think in political terms the way we're accustomed to.
Therefore I'm not very optimistic they can change overnight. They can change
their rhetoric but they can't change substance.

Their inability to accept the existence of two states and their total
dedication to an Islamic religious fundamentalist state all across the
Middle East to Africa to Asia is still their most dominant driving force.
Don't get it wrong, some of them are very sophisticated, well educated
people. But they have a different concept of life.

TIME: Hamas says that if the international community-including the U.S. and
Israel-continues to restrict aid, there is a real possibility of a
humanitarian crisis in the territories. Doesn't Israel have an interest in
preventing a collapse of Palestinian society?

Olmert: We're not going to wait for a collapse. We're going to prevent it
from the outset without any hesitation. I'm concerned about it independently
of the issue of whether it would harm Israeli interests or not. It's enough
that it should do something bad for innocent human beings that I will want
to prevent it. That doesn't mean I have to cooperate with the Palestinian
government. We have to find a way how to help the people without helping a
government that can easily use these funds that will be transferred to them
for different purposes altogether without any sense of regret or
responsibility for the human needs of the population. We promise we will do
everything we can to help meet the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian
people without any hesitation whatsoever.

TIME: How?

Olmert: There are many non-governmental organizations that can be of
assistance, and money can be transferred directly to them. It doesn't always
have to go across the administration of the PA in order to become
meaningful. We're thinking about it. I'm having a discussion with my top
advisers to see what we can do.

TIME: Will you release the $50 million in tax duties that you've withheld
from the Palestinians?

Olmert: Don't expect us to release the money to the Palestinian government.
This is a terrorist government and there's no way I can be sure that the
money I release will go to the needs you want them for. They might go for
financing terror-to Bin Laden, to Hezbollah-I have no idea. If we release
the money it will not go through the Palestinian administration.

TIME: Do you visit Sharon in the hospital?

Olmert: Not at all. I have not been. I can't talk to him. He's unconscious.
I talk to his doctors twice a week, so I know exactly what his situation is
and I talk to his sons. For me Arik Sharon-I remember his courage and
inspiration. I want to remember him the way he really was-not as an aging 80
year old man living in bed helpless and unconscious.

The last meeting I had with him was on the day of his collapse. He was to
have an operation the next day. I was supposed to be acting Prime Minister
for three hours while he had the operation. He asked me to meet with him. I
remember joking with him and saying, "I'm not going to make any decision
tomorrow except changing all your staff." At the end of the meeting I stood
up and said "Arik, this country needs you. Stay well. Come back. I am
looking forward to hearing your voice on the phone tomorrow saying 'Ehud I
relieve you of your responsibilities. I'm back in town.'" Then I hugged him
and he hugged me, and I said goodbye. I want to remember that.

TIME: Do you feel lucky to have been handed the opportunity?

Olmert: I've been working 33 years to reach this minute. I've been doing
what I thought was right for the state of Israel. I was never hiding my
opinions. I always was at the forefront in all the political battles over
the last three decades. I am where I'm supposed to be. I don't believe it
was the only possible development that I would be Prime Minister. But I was
among the 5 or 6 people in the room who everyone with political
understanding would think could get the job.

So what happened was a natural outcome of a process of which I was a major
part. There are things that can prepare you for doing this job-your wisdom
or lack of it, your experience or lack of it, your personality, your frame
of mind. But nothing totally prepares you for it because you've never been
there before-you've never been in the place where as President Truman said,
"The buck stops here." It's your decision that will count. I hope that I'm
as ready as I can get. I hope that I'm as capable as I think I am to assume
responsibility. But I'm not afraid, I'm not intimidated by anything. All my
life I did everything to be ready now.

TIME: Do people treat you differently now that you're Prime Minister?

Olmert: It takes getting used to. I received one of my friends at home the
other day. I was in shorts and a T-shirt, which was fine. Then he had to
leave, I saw him out the main door, and when I was outside, he said go back
in the house. I said why, I thought he was worried about security, because
the security doesn't let me go outside. He said, '"Look how you're dressed!
You're the Prime Minister!'" I thought, What the heck? This is how I dress.
But life has changed, that's for sure. I can't go to the soccer game
anymore, or I can't go to the market. You have to measure the joy it gives
you against the inconvenience to the average person.

TIME: Still, you became Prime Minister in pretty extraordinary
circumstances, after Ariel Sharon's stroke. Did you feel prepared for the
job?

Olmert: A friend of mine who's known me for 25 years told me, that perhaps
the most striking effect for him was the fact I look so well-prepared for
the job that's unbelievable, as if I've prepared all my life. In a way he's
right. I know the professional experts of Israeli politics had other
forecasts. But I knew one day I would be PM. I've felt for a long time that
I knew what needs to be done and that I knew inside me that I had the
emotional powers to be able to carry the burden that comes with it. It's not
something that was guiding me in everything I did every morning,. I'm not
that kind of person, it's just that I knew that one day I had to be ready to
assume responsibility a the highest level, and that I had to think in this
manner. There's nothing that's happened to me in the last few months that
struck me as entirely different than anything else that I ever did in my
entire life.

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: American Embassy awards Givat Haviva
$350,000 to train community leaders in Arab sector

Givat Haviva has been awarded $350,000 for Training Community
Leaders program: the MEPI grant for Arab Empowerment Program
Tuesday, 11 April, 2006

A key Givat Haviva program for Arab empowerment has been awarded a
$350,000 MEPI (Middle East Partnership Initiative) grant from the US
Embassy in Israel. The grant will support the Institute for Training
Community Leaders and Municipal Workers in the Arab Sector, a
project implemented jointly by Givat Haviva's Jewish-Arab Center for
Peace and the Arab Mayors Council.

By raising the professional skills of Arab community workers and
leaders, and improving the level of the services they provide to
their constituents, the program strengthens the foundations of
democracy and facilitates social change in Israeli Arab villages and
cities. The program will commence in the coming weeks.

Happy Spring Holidays from all of us at Givat Haviva

PR Department - Givat Haviva, Tel: +972-(0)4-6309241 Fax: +972-(0)4-6309305
dovergh@givathaviva.org.il www.givathaviva.org.il

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: CABINET COMMUNIQUE
[Olmert Interim PM, PA is terrorist authority]

CABINET COMMUNIQUE
(Communicated by the Cabinet Secretariat)
At the Cabinet meeting today (Tuesday), 11.04.06:

1. The Cabinet discussed the decision that Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert
will serve as Interim Prime Minister until the establishment of the new
government, this upon the conclusion of 100 days since Prime Minister Ariel
Sharon became unable to discharge the duties of his office.
Cabinet Secretary Yisrael Maimon made the following remarks:
"On the night of 4.1.06, Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was rushed to hospital
suffering from severe bleeding in his brain.
A few minutes after Prime Minister Sharon arrived at the hospital, due to
his severe condition, Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Attorney General
Meni Mazuz and I held a telephone conversation in which it was decided that
Prime Minister Sharon's powers would be transferred to Acting Prime Minister
Olmert ( http://tinyurl.com/gqeu6 ).

This Friday, 14.4.06, will be the 100th day in which Prime Minister Sharon
has been unable to discharge the duties of his office. Pursuant to Basic
Law: The Government ( http://tinyurl.com/2v5nk ), after 100 days the
Government must appoint a minister from Prime Minister Sharon's faction to
serve as Interim Prime Minister until the formation of a new Government.
The proposal before you is that Kadima Chairman Acting Prime Minister Ehud
Olmert serve as Interim Prime Minister.
We convened the Cabinet in special session today, the last day on which the
Cabinet could meet before Friday, 14.4.06.

The decision accepted today will take effect on Friday, 14.4.06, at
midnight, should Prime Minister Sharon's condition remain unchanged.

This is a difficult and sad day for all of us - the aides who worked
alongside Prime Minister Sharon, in his bureau, in the Cabinet Secretariat
and in the entire Prime Minister's Office, as it is - of course - for the
members of Prime Minister Sharon's family and for his friends. We did not
think that we would reach this moment. We pray that Prime Minister Sharon
recovers and send our best wishes to his family and friends."

The Cabinet decided as follows:

Since 100 days will have passed by Friday, 14.4.06 (inclusive) since Prime
Minister Ariel Sharon became unable to discharge the duties of his office,
it is determined that pursuant to Article 30(c) of Basic Law: The Government
( http://tinyurl.com/2v5nk ), Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will serve
as Interim Prime Minister until the new government is established.

This decision will take effect on the aforementioned date should Prime
Minister Sharon's condition remain unchanged.
Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert made the following remarks:

"Thank you very much; I thank the members of the Government for their vote
and for their trust. The 100-day period, which will end this Friday,
14.4.06, and which began on the night of 4.1.06, stems - first and
foremost - from the state of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's health and also
from the provisions of the law ( http://tinyurl.com/2v5nk ) that stipulate
this timeframe, in which an Acting Prime Minister carries out his duties
according to law.

I very much hope that today's decision will be in force for a very short
time only. Since President Moshe Katsav asked me to form a new government,
we have been making efforts to establish that government and I very much
hope that, despite the holidays , we will succeed in completing this work as
soon as possible and that we will submit the new Government to a vote of
confidence in the Knesset very soon.

I again thank the members of the Government. Of course, we will continue to
carry out our duties and responsibilities in these circumstances and will
endeavor to do our best to faithfully serve the State of Israel."

2. Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert wished everyone a Happy Passover (
http://tinyurl.com/qloh4 ): "At this time, I would like to wish a Happy
Passover to all members of the Government and their families, and to the
wonderful team of employees, aides, assistants and secretaries, first and
foremost to Cabinet Secretary Yisrael Maimon.

A Happy Passover to the Sharon family and to the entire Jewish People. May
we and our families have a quiet and peaceful holiday as we all deserve."

3. The Cabinet discussed policy regarding the Palestinian Authority
following the swearing-in of the Hamas government. Defense Minister Shaul
Mofaz, Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni, IDF Chief-of-Staff Lt.-Gen. Dan Halutz
and GOC Intelligence Maj.-Gen. Amos Yedlin were among those who presented
their views on the issue and on the problems facing the PA and the Hamas
government.

The Cabinet decided as follows:

Following the Palestinian Authority elections and the subsequent 25.3.06
swearing-in of the Hamas government, a government which recognizes neither
the existence of the State of Israel nor the agreements that have been
signed with it and which has not disavowed the path of terrorism:

A. The Palestinian Authority is a terrorist authority that is hostile to
Israel;
B. The State of Israel, and all of its official representatives, will not
hold ties with the Palestinian Authority and its elements.
C. The Palestinian Authority is one authority; therefore, neither the
Palestinian Authority Chairman nor his office will be treated any
differently. However, there will be no personal disavowal of the
Palestinian Authority Chairman.
D. Foreign officials who are visiting the region and who meet with Hamas
elements will not be received, during the same visit, for meetings with
Israeli officials.
E. Israel will coordinate with the international community regarding
humanitarian assistance for the needs of the Palestinian population, not via
the Palestinian Authority establishment.
F. Subject to security considerations, the Gaza Strip crossings will be open
in order to allow the entry of humanitarian assistance into the Gaza Strip.

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: MEMRITV: Iran Defense Minister: We Have the
Capability to Make Shahab Missiles Like Candy

The Following are excerpts from an interview with former Iranian defense
minister Admiral Ali Shamkhani, which aired on Channel 2, Iranian TV on
March 21, 2006.

TO VIEW THIS CLIP VISIT: www.memritv.org/search.asp?ACT=S9&P1=1109

*Clip # 1109 - Admiral Ali Shamkhani: We Have the Capability to Make Shahab
Missiles Like Candy

Footage of testing of Shahab 3, with the following text:

"Successful test of the Shahab 3 missile"

Admiral Ali Shamkhani: If we were dependent on others in this industry, the
world would have nothing to worry about. The lines transporting supplies for
the missiles can be blocked. Fine, let them block them. We don't have any
problem with that. Besides, whoever depends on others for purchasing
supplies cannot grow in terms of quantity. Today, we have the capability to
make missiles like candy. This capability is 100 times greater than we had
even in the early days of the [Iran-Iraq] war, when we used 60 mm mortars by
the Khorramshahr Bridge. Do you know what a 60 mm mortar is?

Interviewer: Yes, sir.

Admiral Ali Shamkhani: Do you know what an RPG-7 is?

Interviewer: Yes.

Admiral Ali Shamkhani: These are very convenient weapons, right?

Interviewer: Yes.

Admiral Ali Shamkhani: Today, we... In those days, by the Khorramshahr
Bridge, we fought the Iraqi regime. Back then, our problem was that we
didn't have enough RPGs.

TO VIEW THIS CLIP VISIT: www.memritv.org/search.asp?ACT=S9&P1=1109

**********************

For assistance, please contact MEMRI TV Project at memritv@memri.org

The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) is an independent,
non-profit organization that translates and analyzes the media of the Middle
East. Copies of articles and documents cited, as well as background
information, are available on request.

MEMRI holds copyrights on all translations. Materials may only be used with
proper attribution.

MEMRI TV Project
P.O. Box 27837, Washington, DC 20038-7837
Phone: (202) 955-9070
Fax: (202) 955-9077
www.memritv.org

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: President Abbas Condemns Isolation of PNA,
Prepares for European Diplomatic Shuttle

President Abbas Condemns Isolation of PNA, Prepares for European Diplomatic
Shuttle
www.ipc.gov.ps/ipc_new/english/details.asp?name=15207

RAMALLAH, Palestine, April 11, 2006 (IPC + Agencies) -[Official PA
website] - President Mahmoud Abbas stressed on Monday that the Palestinian
National Authority (PNA) will not accept the constant Israeli attempts to
isolate it, and asserted that it will find ways to break from this isolation
regardless of the price paid.

"The isolation and oppressive decisions taken by the Israeli government, and
considering the Palestinian National Authority a terrorist entity contradict
completely the agreements we signed with them, and international
legitimacy," President Abbas said while attending a festival marking the
Palestinian Child's Day in Ramallah City.

The President demanded the Israeli government cease these measures,
expressing amazement towards the silence of the world about the injustice
Palestinians are suffering. "We are not demanding anything beyond the
international legitimacy. We demand establishing an independent state free
of walls and settlements, and a just solution for the refugee problem. is
this too much? Is this a violation of what the world respects?"

President Abbas asserted that the Palestinian people will not renounce their
legitimate rights, and called to the unification of the Palestinian people
and for their steadfastness.

Meanwhile, President Abbas received at his Ramallah office the US Consul
General in Jerusalem, Jacob Wallace, and also in another meeting a
delegation from the European Union headed by Luisa Morgantini.

During his meeting with Wallace, the President discussed the latest
developments in the Palestinian territories, in light of the Israeli
aggression that left 18 Palestinians dead in Gaza Strip and the West Bank
over the past few days.

Furthermore, Abbas also tackled the Israeli unilateral steps on the ground,
calling for the intervention of the United States to stop the Israeli
escalation and arbitrary measures.

Speaking to reporters following President Abbas' meeting with the US Consul
General, chief negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat said that the President is
determined to stand up to the Israeli pressure on the new Palestinian
government that was formed by Hamas movement, adding that Wallace's visit is
part of a series of steps Abbas initiated with the international community.

"The President has commenced contacts with the international community,
particularly with the American administration, and will also conduct an Arab
and European tour to explain the Palestinian situations and demand continued
financial support to the Palestinian Authority, because the Palestinian
people are in need for urgent humanitarian assistance," Dr. Erekat said.

Erekat also called on Hamas government to accept the platform President
Abbas laid out in his appointment letter, in order to face any Israeli
excuses.

On the other hand, the President's office declared that President Abbas will
visit France in April 23, where he will meet with the French President
Jacques Chirac as well as the Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy.

President Abbas' visit will be part of a diplomatic shuttle to Finland,
Norway, Turkey and Algeria, where he will explain the situations in the
Palestinian territories following the formation of a Hamas-led government,
according to sources at his office.

President Abbas is also scheduled to address the European Parliament in
Strasburg in mid-April, as he was supposed to give this speech last March,
but was postponed due to the Israeli assault on Jericho Prison and the
arrest of Ahmad Saadat, the Secretary General of the Popular Front for the
Liberation of Palestine (PFLP).

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: French Official: France re-examining
direct budgetary aid to PA

GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS COUNCIL INTERVIEW GIVEN BY MME
CATHERINE COLONNA, MINISTER DELEGATE FOR EUROPEAN AFFAIRS, TO "RFI"

www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/actu/bulletin.gb.asp?liste=20060411.gb.html

(Luxembourg, 10 April 2006)

The situation in the Palestinian Territories is indeed difficult. What's to
be done? We have decided, today, to continue the humanitarian aid - this
accounts for over half the aid granted by the Europeans - and obviously also
the aid meeting the people's most essential needs. The Palestinian Authority
will also have to be strengthened. As you know, the President of the
Palestinian Authority is scheduled to come to Paris on 23rd of this month.

But we can't, in the face of a Palestinian government governed by Hamas
which hasn't, so far, made any gesture to respect the three principles the
Europeans and international community have laid down, continue as if nothing
had happened. So we are in a phase of re-examining direct budgetary aid.
We'll have to look at what we can continue case by case and pretty strictly,
and what we must, on the contrary, regard as not being possible at this
moment..

AMBAFRANCE

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: Russia to Continue Sending Financial Aid to PNA

Russia to Continue Sending Financial Aid to PNA
http://english.wafa.ps/body.asp?id=5955

MOSCOW, April 11, 2006 (WAFA - PLO news agency) - Russian Foreign Minister,
Sergei Lavrov, pledged to continue sending financial aid to the Palestinian
National Autority (PNA) even though its government is now led Hamas.

Lavrov remarks came following a meeting with his Jordanian counterpart
Adbedelah al-Khatib Tuesday in Moscow.

"We should look for options to provide aid for the Palestinians in a
transparent, checkable way, and such options can be found without
exacerbating the situation in Palestine," Lavrov said. "Russia plans to
provide such aid and in such a form".

The minister said it would be wrong to halt aid to the Palestinian National
Authority because of Hamas' dominance of its new government. The
international community should work with Hamas following its landslide
victory in Palestinian parliamentary polls, not boycott it.

"Hamas must recognize Israel and sit down at the negotiating table in
keeping with the Quartet's terms," he said.

Lavrov said it was extremely important to ensure compliance with all
previously signed agreements in the post-election period, and that utmost
care should be taken not to jeopardize the Middle East peace process, which
is paving the way for an agreement to create a sovereign Palestinian state.

H.M (20:11 P) (17:11 GMT)

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: The forked tongue of Hamas: How it speaks
differently to Western and Arab media

The forked tongue of Hamas: How it speaks differently to Western and Arab
media

Background Paper by IDF Intelligence 11-Apr-2006

There are glaring inconsistencies in the messages Hamas sends to the Arab
and Western media on the issues of terrorism, Israel, and negotiations.
Hamas's media strategy is to adapt its various messages to the relevant
target audience: to Western media, Hamas attempts to put across a "soft"
image; before the Arab media, including the Palestinian media, Hamas
presents a defiant and uncompromising image (including on issues such as
terrorism, the peace process, and recognition of Israel). Palestinian Prime
Minister Ismail Haniya in particular presents contradictory messages in his
appearances before the various media outlets.

The following are important examples of Hamas's double messages:

Jihad
Extreme statement (Arabic)

"Resistance is an option that the Palestinian people has adhered to in order
to restore its national rights, the right of return, self-determination and
the establishment of a Palestinian State." (Khaled Mashal, statement of the
secretary-general of the Damascus factions, March 28, 2006).

"The Movement's manifesto combines resistance with political action..the
[government] guidelines have emerged from the womb of resistance." (Ismail
Haniya, speech before the Legislative Council, March 28, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements (Arabic)

"We believe that the Palestinian arena is now affected by political
conditions, just like the Israeli side. The way in which these conditions
find expression is the main reason for the situation today, where no one has
made a decision to calm down..there are few violations on either side."
(Moussa Abu Marzouk, Hamas Web site, April 6, 2006).

"Moderate" statements in the Western media

"Hamas never thinks about violence.Hamas in effect aspires towards peace and
calm based upon justice and equality.anything which is offered to the
Palestinian Authority on a political level will be considered and
discussed..Hamas will look into a mechanism for conducting negotiations."
(Ismail Haniya, CBS, March 17, 2006).

Recognition of Israel
Extreme statements (in Arabic)

"No to negotiations with Israel, no to recognition of Israel and no to
surrender of Palestinian rights" (Khaled Mashal, Al-Rai Al-Aaam, March 26,
2006).

"One of the basic principles of the new government is not to surrender to
international threats and to refuse to recognize Israel" (Ismail Haniya,
Alsharoq newspaper, March 1, 2006).

"I dream of hanging up a large map of the world on my wall at home in Gaza,
on which Israel does not appear".. (Mahmoud al-Zahar, March 3, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements (in Arabic)

"The Government will agree to cooperate with Israel on many matters.in no
way will it be possible to disrupt this partnership". (Moussa Abu Marzouk,
Hamas Web site, April 6, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements in the Western Media

"We will respect the agreements which will ensure the establishment of a
Palestinian state on the '67 lines, as well as the release of prisoners. if
Israel withdraws to the '67 lines, we will formulate peace in stages."
(Ismail Haniya, Jerusalem Post, February 25).

Islamization

Extreme Statements (in Arabic)

"The new council will act to adapt the Palestinian laws to the spirit of
Islam.Hamas has placed an emphasis on the motto 'Islam is the solution', and
this has to be reflected in the laws that it is enacting". (Ahmed Abu
Halbia, al-Ayyam, February 22, 2006).

"Moderate" statements (in Arabic)

"We will not force our views and opinions on anyone, that is our way. We
will not force women to wear a veil as has been implied, and, at the same
time, we will not enact laws that will violate Islamic law." (Maryam Saleh,
Minister of Women Affairs, Al-Halij, March 24, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements in the Western Media

"We are committed to acting in order to improve the moral standards of our
people. I hope that soon all places selling alcohol will be closed, not as a
result of an order, but because there will not be any consumers." (Aziz
Dweik, Secretary of the Legislative Council, Corriere Della Sera, March 1).

Negotiations with Israel

Extreme Statements (in Arabic)

"I will not meet with the leadership of the occupation, and we have those
who will represent us in the visits of the prisoners" (Wasfi Kabha, the
Minister for Prisoner Affairs, March 28, 2006).

"The Palestinian security framework is not amenable to political
negotiations, This is certainly not on my agenda" (Said Siam, Minister of
the Interior, Press Conference in Gaza, April 2, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements (Arab media)

"I am ready to meet with my Israeli colleague. We do not see these meetings
as simply meetings, if it is necessary, I do not think that there will be a
problem". (Amr Mater, Minister of Finance, March 24, 2006).

"Moderate" Statements in the Western Media

"In regard to matters of day-to-day living, there are professional elements,
and we will not carry out a coup on such matters." (Said Siam, Reuters,
March 23, 2006).

Terrorist Attacks
Extreme Statements (Arabic)

"Our resistance to occupation in Palestine continues, and will not cease
under any circumstances..the al-Qassem Brigades will continue the march for
the total liberation of the soil of their beloved homeland of Palestine,
from the sea to the river." (Ahmad al-Jaabari, Hamas website, April 5,
2006).

"Moderate" Statement (Arabic)

"The military action is dependent first of all on considerations on the
ground. it is related to conditions that have been agreed upon concerning
the establishment of peace among the Palestinians". (Abu Abeida, Spokesman
of the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas website, March 6, 2006).

Moderate Statements in the Western Media

"Changes in Hamas are taking place in a gradual and measured manner. Hamas
adapts political pragmatism in regard to the state and the ceasefire" (Aazi
Hamad, Adviser to Ismail Haniya, March 28, 2006).

------------------------------

From: imra@netvision.net.il
To: imra@imra.org.il
Subject: MEMRI: Palestinian Foreign Minister Defends
"Martyrdom-Seeking Operations"

The following are excerpts from an interview with Palestinian Foreign
Minister Mahmoud Al-Zahar, which aired on Al-Arabiya TV on April 6, 2006.

TO VIEW THIS CLIP VISIT: http://www.memritv.org/search.asp?ACT=S9&P1=1107

*Clip # 1107 - Palestinian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Al-Zahar Defends
"Martyrdom-Seeking Operations"

Interviewer: How will you deal with the issue of suicide operations against
Israeli civilians? Abu Mazen condemns these operations. What will be your
position?

Mahmoud Al-Zahar: These are not suicide operations. This is a despicable
term used by the Israelis in order to say that these are suicide operations,
knowing that suicide is forbidden in Islam. This is just for the sake of
clarification. These are martyrdom-seeking operations, approved by all the
authorities of the Islamic nation, who consider them to be the highest level
of martyrdom. It is a form of resistance, and resistance against the
occupation is legitimate. When we have F-16 airplanes, Apache helicopters,
espionage planes, helicopters, and tanks like theirs, we will use them - one
army against the other. But as long as there is a nuclear arsenal facing an
unarmed people, I believe this people has a right to defend itself with the
means at its disposal.

TO VIEW THIS CLIP VISIT: http://www.memritv.org/search.asp?ACT=S9&P1=1107

**********************
For assistance, please contact MEMRI TV Project at memritv@memri.org

The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) is an independent,
non-profit organization that translates and analyzes the media of the Middle
East. Copies of articles and documents cited, as well as background
information, are available on request.

MEMRI holds copyrights on all translations. Materials may only be used with
proper attribution.

MEMRI TV Project
P.O. Box 27837, Washington, DC 20038-7837
Phone: (202) 955-9070
Fax: (202) 955-9077
www.memritv.org

------------------------------

From: imra-owner@imra.org.il
Subject: IMRA Subscription Info

--------------------------------------------
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End of [imra] Daily digest - Volume: 2 Issue: 1369 (15 messages)
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