A senior Israeli official says that killing Yasser Arafat is a way for the government to implement its cabinet decision to remove the Palestinian leader. Ehud Olmert, Israel's Deputy Prime Minister, states that his country is working to eliminate all leaders of terrorist attacks against Israelis. In response, Colin Powell, the United States Secretary of State, said that the United States does not support the removal or exile of Mr. Arafat. Thousands of Palestinians have protested since Thursday when the Israeli cabinet announced its decision. Shaul Mofaz, Israel's Defense Minister, has canceled his previously planned trip to the United States this week due to security concerns. Additionally, on Sunday, following the protests, Israeli soldiers shot at least 7 Palestinian stone throwers near a Jewish settlement in the Gaza Strip, injuring them.
Ehud Olmert: Killing Yasser Arafat is Another Way to Remove Palestinian Leader - 2003-09-15
Ehud Olmert stated that killing Yasser Arafat could facilitate the Israeli government's decision to remove him as a leader. The U.S. has opposed this action, leading to widespread protests among Palestinians. This situation escalates tensions in the region and highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Ehud Olmert suggested that killing Yasser Arafat could be a method for Israel to remove him from power, which contradicts U.S. opposition to such actions. This statement has led to protests among Palestinians and increased military tensions in the region.
- Olmert's comments indicate a shift towards more aggressive Israeli tactics against Palestinian leadership.
- The U.S. has publicly opposed the idea of removing Arafat, highlighting differing international perspectives on the conflict.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical roots, characterized by territorial disputes, national identity, and ongoing violence. Arafat's leadership has been pivotal in Palestinian resistance and negotiations.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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