Israel's Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon on Wednesday rebuffed an offer by Yasser Arafat to resume peace talks.
Commenting for the first time on the Israeli vote, Arafat said Wednesday that he was ready to resume peace talks. Asked by Israeli TV's Channel 10 if he was willing to meet with Sharon, Arafat said: "Tonight. If he's ready, I'm ready."
Sharon's office said that the Palestinian leader "is not and will not be a negotiating partner." Israel will only negotiate with Palestinians not involved in violence, the statement said. (Albawaba.com)
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