Relating to the remarks made in Israel today by US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, Meretz-Yahad Chairman, Yossi Beilin, stated: “Rice’s hollow press conference is a direct result of Prime Minister Olmert’s refusal to begin serious negotiations with the Palestinians. Olmert, even at the denouement of his term, is fixated on rejecting the peace process.

“The rejuvenated Arab initiative, the Arab Quartet (Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates), and US willingness to help the process along are making possible a diplomatic step forward. Rejection is liable to cost Israel heavily,” Beilin added. “Olmert, who entangled Israel in a failed war in Lebanon, is now taking it upon himself to pass up a rare opportunity for significant diplomatic progress. This is unforgivable.”