Military

DATE=10/21/00

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=Israel-Palestinians (L-update)

NUMBER=2-268260

BYLINE=Sonja Pace

DATELINE=Jerusalem

INTERNET=YES

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

///Eds: change and update intro with new info/details on clashes and casualty count as warranted///

INTRO: Fresh clashes erupted today (Saturday) between Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli security forces in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. At least two Palestinians were reported killed and more than 100 injured. The violence continued as Arab leaders met for an emergency summit in Cairo a gathering being closely watched by Israel. VOA's Sonja Pace reports from Jerusalem.

TEXT: As Arab leaders met in Cairo, the situation on the ground in Israel and the Palestinian areas remained tense and volatile. Fresh clashes broke out in the West Bank and Gaza. Tens of thousands turned out for funeral processions as Palestinians buried their dead from Friday's confrontations. Some mourners burned photographs of moderate Arab leaders.

Friday was one of the bloodiest days in violence that is now entering its fourth week and that has left more than 115 people dead, almost all of them Palestinian.

Each side blames the other for the escalating violence and for not wanting peace. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak said he would re-assess the situation and call a "time-out" (set aside for the time being) in the peace process after the Arab League summit. However, the Prime Minister seems to have left room to maneuver. And, on Saturday Israeli officials indicated the government would wait and see if the violence continued after the Arab summit before making any final decision. Israel has made it clear it is keeping a close eye on the outcome of that meeting.

//Begin opt.// In Cairo, Arab leaders ended their first day of talks harshly condemning Israel for the current unrest. Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat denounced what he called the "mass killing and barbarian bombing" by Israel and vowed to press ahead to "victory." But, he also said despite the violence Palestinians still want, what he termed, a "permanent, just and comprehensive peace." An Israeli government spokesman denounced Mr. Arafat's speech as "very extreme." //end opt.//

There is little talk of peace on the ground. Emotions in the streets of Palestinian controlled areas are running high with calls for a continued "intifadah" or uprising. Protesters have taken to the streets throughout the Arab world to denounce Israel and support the Palestinians. The confrontations have deepened the anger and distrust between Palestinians and Israelis. And, the question here is not when and how to resume the peace process, but rather whether the violence can be stopped.

NEB/SP/PT