Military

DATE=6/10/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / ISRAEL (L-UPDATE)

NUMBER=2-304216

BYLINE=SCOTT STEARNS

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush is criticizing Israel's attempt to kill a top official of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. V-O-A's Scott Stearns reports, Bush administration officials are discussing today's attacks with both Israeli and Palestinian diplomats.

TEXT: President Bush says he is troubled by Israel's attempt to assassinate a senior Hamas official because the violence could make it harder to fight terrorism.

/// BUSH ACT ///

I regret the loss of innocent life. I am concerned that the attacks will make it more difficult for the Palestinian leadership to fight off terrorist attacks. I also don't believe the attacks helped Israeli security.

/// END ACT ///

The president says his national security team has been in contact with senior Israeli and Palestinian officials about Tuesday's helicopter strikes. He again called on all sides to abide by a power-sharing deal meant to lead toward a separate Palestinian state by 2005.

/// SECOND BUSH ACT ///

I am determined to keep the process on the road to peace and I believe with responsible leadership by all parties, we can bring peace to the region. And I emphasize all parties must behave responsibly to achieve that objective.

/// END ACT ///

White House spokesman Ari Fleischer says the president stands by Israel's right to self-defense but believes Israel must act on that right "in a manner that is consistent with larger objectives."

In this case, Mr. Fleischer says, the attacks are "deeply troubling" given the progress necessary to make the peace plan work.

/// FLEISCHER ACT ///

Neither party can afford to take actions that derail the "road map" because it is too important to the peace and security and the well-being of the Israeli people and the Palestinian people. And that's why the president finds this deeply troubling.

/// END ACT ///

It was less than a week ago that Mr. Bush met with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to discuss the so-called road map for peace. Mr. Fleischer says the president is still optimistic that the plan can work if both sides commit to the vision of two states living side-by-side in peace. (SIGNED)

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