While the Israelis are often accused of ruining the chances of secret talks from succeeding because of leaks to the Israeli media, Palestinian leader Mahmoud ‘Abbas has gone one step further by making public his desire to enter into secret talks with Israel.
Such a direction is imperative if the renewed bid to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is going to work, ‘Abbas said after meeting with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Egypt.
The ‘Abbas-Mubarak meeting took place at the same time that Egypt’s Foreign Minister Ahmad Abu Al-Gheit was in Jerusalem for talks with his opposite number, Tzipi Livni. Israel’s Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is scheduled to meet with Mubarak in Egypt next week.
Cairo is playing a pivotal role in bringing the parties back together, with the support of Washington.
Earlier this week Israel approved the transfer of large quantities of weapons and ammunition from Egypt to ‘Abbas’ elite guard. Further Israeli gestures are expected over the next few days, including the release of prisoners to coincide with the ‘Id Al-A’dha holydays and the easing of travel restrictions within and from the Palestinian areas.
The diplomatic push will resume after the Muslim festival and New Year, with the arrival in the region once again of United States Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. She is looking to build on the recent talks in Ramallah and Jerusalem with United Kingdom premier, Tony Blair. Olmert hosted ‘Abbas in Jerusalem soon after Blair’s visit, reportedly as a direct result of it.
Olmert is attempting to keep his government and military in line as they press him to launch an offensive in Gaza, given the rockets that are continuing to fall on Israeli homes nearby. Olmert is hoping his decision not to resume widespread attacks in Gaza will lead to further diplomatic advances.