Middle East discussions continue despite violence

Israeli and Palestinian security chiefs are meeting to discuss implementation of a ceasefire negotiated by CIA director Mr George…

Israeli and Palestinian security chiefs are meeting to discuss implementation of a ceasefire negotiated by CIA director Mr George Tenet.

The talks come after violence on the first day of the truce threatened to destroy it.

Israel Prime Minister Mr Ariel Sharon said in a statement "we will not be able to carry out our commitments" in areas where there is violence.

Major General Giora Eiland, chief of Israeli military operations, says it is too early to say whether the Palestinians are putting enough effort into ensuring the ceasefire is maintained. "So far we are not very pleased with the results," Gen Eiland said.

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In yesterday’s violence, an Israeli military intelligence officer, Lt Col Yehuda Edri was shot dead. Mortar shells were also fired at a Jewish settlement in Gaza and another soldier was shot and killed in Abu Shaireh.

Three Israelis were also wounded when Palestinians opened fire on their car near Ramallah in the West Bank.

Near Khan Younis in Gaza, Palestinians say Israeli forces fired on demonstrators, wounding six, one critically. Israeli military sources said soldiers fired at the legs of rioters.

The meeting of Palestinian and Israeli security commanders was arranged before Tenet left after negotiating the terms of the truce.

PA