Contrary to other reports of pessimism (which is definitely greater on the Palestinian side), Kol Israel radio reported this evening that “sources in Jerusalem say US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s decision not to visit the region before the summit signals that preparations are moving ahead and there is no need for intervention”.
The Kol Israel story also reported that “Prime Minister Ehud Olmert planned to convene the Israeli negotiating team headed by Foreign Minister Tzippi Livni at his residence Saturday night as part of preparations for the planned Annapolis peace summit. Senior officials and advisors from the prime minister’s office, foreign ministry and defense ministry are expected to take part. A Kol Yisrael reporter says the consultations will address gestures towards the Palestinians … ”
http://reka.iba.org.il/.
Tags: Annapolis, Condoleeza Rice, Israeli-Palestinian negotiations