NEWS:
Likud and Kadima leaders agree to cancel the planned September election in Israel and create a coalition government. PM Netanyahu says the move will enhance "stability." Palestinians express pessimism about the prospects for a peace agreement with the new Israeli government. Israel's Supreme Court refuses to release two Palestinian “administrative detainees” on hunger strike. Palestinian negotiator Erekat sufferers a non-fatal heart attack. Israel's Supreme Court says that an “unauthorized” settlement outpost must be demolished by June 1, in spite of government resistance to the order. Israeli occupation forces raid the offices of a Palestinian watchdog organization on Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The EU expresses concern about the condition of Palestinian hunger striking detainees. The PA reportedly agrees on a new cabinet in which Salam Fayyad will remain prime minister but Nabil Qassis will become finance minister.
COMMENTARY:
Hussein Ibish says ATFP President Ziad Asali has pioneered a genuine and indispensable Palestinian-American willingness to openly and honestly talk with pro-Israel Jewish Americans and Israeli officials. Amir Oren says Israel's new coalition government might pave the road to an attack on Iran. Bradley Burston says Israel's hand-picked government cannot last and will be soon challenged at the polls. Rep. Howard Berman says Israel's “Iron Dome” antimissile system is a strategic imperative for Israel, and also important for the United States. Meir Margalit explains what it's like working as an Israeli against the demolition of Palestinian homes and other occupation abuses. Gershon Baskin says Israeli activists are right to worry about “social justice” but should also have peace as a priority. Jonathan Marcus says Netanyahu has strengthened his political hand with the new coalition deal. Peter Joseph says a moderate middle ground must be staked out in the debate about the relationship between Jewish Americans and Israel. Khalaf Al Habtoor says there has to be a "Plan B" for Israel and the Palestinians. Nati Sharoni says Israel certainly does have a Palestinian negotiating partner, if it wants one.
American Task Force on Palestine - 1634 Eye St. NW, Suite 725, Washington DC 20006 - Telephone: 202-262-0017