Blogging from the Highlands of Scotland
'From fanaticism to barbarism is only one step' - Diderot

Tuesday 9 April 2002

President Bush, speaking in Knoxville, Tennessee on Monday reiterated his demand for Israel to withdraw from the territories it has occupiued in the past few weeks, saying: "I meant what I said to the Prime Minister of Israel. I expect there to be withdrawal without delay." He also called on Arab leaders to "stand up and condemn terrorism, terrorist activity".

It is now reported that Israel is to begin 'within hours' withdrawing troops from two West Bank towns. It is clear that Israel means to continue with its policies for as long as possible, despite the intense pressure coming from Washington. What is also clear is that the Palestinians, and other Arab leaders need to do their bit, too, in de-escalating the level of tension in the region by calling clearly and unambiguously for terrorist activity to cease.

Expect to pay more to fill up your tank with petrol over the coming days and weeks (Iraq halts oil exports for a month - crude prices rise immediately, falling back only slightly a little later).

No comments:

Post a Comment

Welcome to my comment area. Whilst all comment is welcome you are requested to respect the views of others. To read full terms for use of this facility, please visit my 'Terms of Use' section, linked to under the 'About this Blog' heading at top right of the blog. Note added 12JUL2010 - All comments will now be pre-moderated before they appear in this blog; this is a measure to prevent 'spam' commenting, which has become frequent of late. Thank you.