Sharon weighs Gaza olive branch
Israeli PM Ariel Sharon says he would consider co-ordinating his Gaza pullout plan with new Palestinian leaders if they moved to curb attacks on Israelis. He said Israel could liaise with the Palestinians on security measures and the areas of Gaza to be evacuated by all Jewish settlers. While Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was alive, Mr Sharon refused to discuss his plan with the Palestinians. The Palestinians are aiming to hold presidential elections in January. Arafat’s death on 11 November has fuelled hopes of a revival in the Middle East peace process, but also fears of violence between Palestinian factions vying for power, correspondents say. Full Story