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Analysts believe that he may be able
to form a Government without the
right-wing parties opposing peaceful
settlement with Palestinians.
Olmert polled less than expected in light
voting but immediately appealed to
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to
continue with the peace talks.
However, with Hamas set to form the
Government and refusing the basic
tenets of the peace process, the
continuation of the dialogue seems
remote.
Olmert promised to firm Israel’s border by
2010 by removing isolated settlements
but by strengthening larger ones. He
also said that Israel will continue
with its occupation of the West Bank
and build a controversial corridor
separating Palestinian habitations. He
indicated that Israel will not
negotiate with Palestinians outside
this wall and instead only with
settlers on the West Bank to achieve
peace.
The Arab meet in Sudan expressed dismay at the election
results and accused Kadima of backtracking on its
international commitment to pursue the peace process.
They did not call for Hamas to give up violence, honor
past international commitments, and recognize
Israel’s right—the foundation elements of the
peace process.
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