Israeli, Palestinian leaders compromise to stabilize Middle East

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-26-2006 08:28

Just days after the summit between Israeli Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, diplomacy continues at a feverish pace in the Israeli cabinet.

Top ministers are making compromises and laying down conditions in a bid to stabilize an increasingly volatile Middle East.

Israel's Prime Minister has extended an olive branch, with conditions, to Syria long viewed with hostile suspicion, for supporting Middle East factions united by a refusal to recognize the state of Israel. Syrian-Israeli peace talks have stalled for almost 7 years over disputed territory in the Golan Heights. Syria has in recent weeks said it's willing to restart negotiations. But Israel is holding out, until it's sure Damascus withdraws support from anti-Israeli countries and militant groups.

Ehud Olmert, Israeli Prime Minister said, "If Syria agrees to end violence, and stop supporting Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as sever its appalling connection with Iran, then we'll be able to engage in a diplomatic process."