Israel says it may end tax revenue transfers to the PA, prompting
calls from the US for clarification and from PM Fayyad for
international intervention. Hamas’ leadership denies it is leaving
Syria. Palestinian leaders are making their way to Cairo for a
national unity agreement signing ceremony. The deal may be partly the
result of new Egyptian foreign policy, which Rami Khouri says marks
Egypt’s return to the Arab fold. Hamas says the next prime minister
must be from Gaza, but Fatah officials say Fayyad may remain in
office. Aaron David Miller says the deal creates the illusion of
unity. Israel feels increased tension and pressure. Egypt calls on the
US to recognize a Palestinian state. Likud hardliners call for
annexing the West Bank. The planned opening of the Gaza-Egypt border
may cause new problems for Israel. The PA welcomes the death of Osama
bin Laden, but Hamas condemns it and calls him a “holy warrior.”
Israeli conductor Daniel Barenboim will perform a “peace concert” in
Gaza. Akiva Eldar and the Daily Star both welcome the Palestinian
unity agreement and Amira Hass says it may serve Israeli policies.
Tzachi Hanegbi says PM Netanyahu should announce plans for Israeli
national unity. The Arab News says Pres. Obama has capitulated to
Israeli intransigence.
American Task Force on Palestine - 1634 Eye St. NW, Suite 725, Washington DC 20006 - Telephone: 202-262-0017