Olmert investigation could block peace deal
Published Date:
11 May 2008
The Palestinians' top peace negotiator said yesterday that he feared a criminal investigation of Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert could damage the chance of a deal this year on Palestinian statehood.
Though Olmert has denied wrongdoing in his ties to an American businessman at the centre of a police inquiry into allegations of bribery, he said he would resign if indicted.
If a new election is held, it would be a definite setback to peace negotiations, which were relaunched in November after a seven-year breakdown. The talks have been dogged by longstanding conflicts over security and settlement-building.
"The developments in the Israeli political system and the investigation could make it difficult to conclude an agreement this year," said Ahmed Qurie, a former Palestinian prime minister who now leads the negotiations.
The case also threatens to complicate George Bush's planned visit to Israel next week, and the US president's hope for peace in the region.
The full article contains 162 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
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Last Updated:
10 May 2008 8:24 PM
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Source:
Scotland On Sunday
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Location:
Scotland
