Military

DATE=11/10/00

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-N / ARAFAT (L)

NUMBER=2-269092

BYLINE=BRECK ARDERY

DATELINE=UNITED NATIONS

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was at the United Nations Friday in an effort to persuade the Security Council to create an international protection force for Palestinian civilians. V-O-A Correspondent Breck Ardery reports from the United Nations.

TEXT: In a two-hour closed meeting of the Council, Mr. Arafat urged the establishment of a two-thousand member protection force that would provide a buffer between Palestinians and Israeli troops. Palestinian officials argue that such a force would inhibit what they describe as "excessive force" used by Israeli troops against Palestinian civilians.

After the closed meeting, Mr. Arafat left without answering questions from reporters. However, U-S Ambassador Richard Holbrooke said that he and some other members of the Council told Mr. Arafat to discuss his proposal with the Israelis.

/// HOLBROOKE ACT ///

They (the Palestinians) have put forward a proposal which they have not yet discussed directly with the Israelis. The Israelis, quite understandably under those circumstances, have rejected it. So, if it is a serious proposal, let us have the two sides discuss it and both President Clinton and (U-N) Secretary-General Annan are prepared to assist in that discussion.

/// END ACT ///

Mr. Holbrooke said the United States will continue to oppose the creation of a protection force unless and until it is supported by both Israel and the Palestinians.

The deputy Palestinian observer at the United Nations, Marwan Jilani, told reporters there is no need to discuss the proposal with Israel at this time.

/// JILANI ACT ///

We do not think this would be a traditional peacekeeping force that would require the consent of the Israelis. This is an occupied territory and we are calling on the Security Council to take its responsibility to protect Palestinian civilians.

/// END ACT ///

However, Mr. Jilani conceded that Israeli cooperation would be necessary before a protective force could be deployed.

Israeli ambassador Yehuda Lancry also met with the Security Council. He said Israel opposes what he called an attempt by the Palestinians to "internationalize" what should be a direct, bilateral process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. (Signed)

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