Extraordinary Session of the United Nations General Assembly to Address Israeli Threat - 2003-09-19

On Friday, September 19, the United Nations General Assembly held an extraordinary session to discuss the threat posed by Israel regarding the assassination or exile of Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestinian Authority. Arab countries requested the UN to convene this special session to consider condemning Israel's decision to expel Mr. Arafat. The proposed solution by Arab nations is similar to the initial proposal that was rejected by the United States Security Council on Tuesday. Whatever the UN's decision may be, it will not create an obligation for the United States Security Council, but it will reflect the perspectives of other countries regarding the issue raised by Israel. Analysts expect that discussions at this meeting will lead to the emergence of differing opinions among the United States, Russia, and European unions, resulting in the design of a 'path to Middle East peace.' Mr. Bush, in his remarks on Tuesday, harshly criticized Yasser Arafat, calling him a 'failed leader.' President Bush, after meeting with King Abdullah of Jordan, told reporters that Yasser Arafat is responsible for halting the 'Middle East peace process.' The Israeli Defense Minister emphasized the country's position regarding the refusal to negotiate with Mr. Arafat. 'Shaul Mofaz' stated today that as long as Mr. Arafat is regarded as the leader of the Palestinians, there is no possibility for achieving peace. The Fatah organization, belonging to Mr. Arafat, has begun the process of electing new members for the Palestinian cabinet. This cabinet election process will provide the Palestinian President with sufficient power to shape the manner in which Prime Minister Mr. Ahmad Qurei exercises his authority.