Raid by Israeli troops in Jericho worsens only slightly an already difficult situation. Olmert proposes "separation" of the two populations as a way to security. But there is no guarantee of peace.
Ecclesiastical sources in Israel say that the incident was serious but that Israel is not involved. Balanced position from the Custody of the Holy Land. Catholics in Nazareth protest against the incident.
Rejecting dialogue out of electoral considerations in Israel may increase desperation and violence among Palestinians and leave both peoples with no hope for peace and security.
Palestinian election results are the fruit of Israeli policy. Israel discredited Fatah's leadership for years and provided favourable conditions for the rise of Hamas. To put a stop to fundamentalism, it's time for dialogue with the enemy.
Whatever the outcome of the elections, the future of the region is in the hands of Israel and an international peace conference. From our correspondent.
Delegations continue their deliberations. However, concerns for the future remain: Sharon was among the most convinced supporters of this dialogue.
Shock, grief and concern for the future. In recent years, Sharon had become a father or grandfather for the nation, eclipsing all other political figures.
There are 146,000 Christians in Israel, apparently including Jerusalem, but not the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Father David-Maria A. Jaeger: "They would represent an opportunity for the Church to be implanted within Israeli society, if only there were an appropriate ecclesial structure to bring them together".
For some the new centre-right alliance will support the peace camp; for others it will be useless. Perhaps the Catholic vote will go to Sharon.
Progress in negotiations between the Holy See and Israel
The next round of negotiations to implement the agreements between the Holy See and Israel is set for November 24. Israeli President is said to have committed himself to accelerating their pace. Father Jaeger says he is optimistic about the outcome. Benedict XVI will visit Jerusalem only after the negotiations are concluded. The head of Israel's delegation is in Washington to urge the US not to back the Vatican.
New Labour leader calls for an "end to the occupation"
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