For the second time in recent weeks, PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) has threatened to step down in response to the lack of progress in peace talks with Israel. The Fatah leader has set a deadline of six months to reach an agreement with Israel before actualizing his threatened resignation. This is in line with statements made in Israel last week by US President George W. Bush, who stated he expects an agreement before concluding his second term in office.

Meeting with Meretz Party MK Dr. Yossi Beilin in Sharm el-Sheikh, Abbas told the left-wing MK that he cannot continue if significant progress is not made in talks with Israeli leaders.

According to Beilin, the PA leader explained he accepted the post in the hope of achieving an agreement with Israel and moving ahead towards actualizing a Palestinian state, not to remain in power without accomplishing the goals.

Concurring with Beilin’s statements was chief PA negotiator Dr. Saeb Erekat, who stated Abbas “will consider his options” if an agreement is not reached.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)