A senior Palestinian official said privately that the Palestinian leadership hopes to start a new chapter with Israel, and that the dramatic events of the past week might provide the opening.
Wednesday’s calm came a day after Arafat announced he had ordered his forces to prevent attacks on Israelis, and to show restraint even if fired on. Israel responded by withdrawing tanks from Palestinian territory and promising to halt military strikes.
I don't know whether this is a sincere gesture on the part of Arafat or merely an effort to placate a Western world that may have been pushed over the edge by recent events. I also don't know how long it will last. But it's good to see some signs of hope in the world, don't you think?
Barry
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The opinions expressed above are for comparison purposes only. Your mileage may vary....
