For Israel's Arab Citizens, Isolation And Exclusion ATFP World Press Roundup Article from The Washington Post by Scott Wilson - December 20, 2007 - 4:44pm Fatina and Ahmad Zubeidat, young Arab citizens of Israel, met on the first day of class at the prestigious Bezalel arts and architecture academy in Jerusalem. Married last year, the couple rents an airy house here in the Galilee filled with stylish furniture and other modern grace notes. » Read more

Hamas Calls For Truce With Israel ATFP World Press Roundup Article from The Associated Press by Sarah El Deeb - December 20, 2007 - 4:43pm On Islam's most important holiday, the leader of Gaza's Hamas government appealed Wednesday for a cease-fire with Israel and said his people — battered by Israeli military strikes and international sanctions — are greeting this year's feast with "tears in our eyes." Hamas until it renounces violence and recognizes Israel, though one Cabinet minister said Israel might consider outside mediation with the Islamic militants. » Read more

Israelis Cool To An Offer From Hamas On A Truce ATFP World Press Roundup Article from The New York Times by Isabel Kershner - December 20, 2007 - 4:42pm Officials in the Israeli prime minister’s office reacted coolly on Wednesday to an indirect approach by the Hamas leader in Gaza offering talks on a truce. The offer was relayed through an Israeli reporter, Sleman al-Shafhe, of Channel 2 television. On a news broadcast on Tuesday night, Mr. Shafhe said Ismail Haniya, the leader of the Hamas government in Gaza, had called him earlier in the day to convey a message to the Israelis. » Read more