Security forces in Arafat's grip

Middle East peace moves have been thrown into disarray by the make-up of the new cabinet announced by Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia, as Yasser Arafat retained indirect control of Palestinian security forces despite Israeli and US demands that he step aside.

Mr Qureia's defeat in his power struggle with the Palestinian President left him weakened, and complicated efforts to restart talks with Israel and begin implementing the US-backed road map to peace.

Israel and the US expressed disappointment at the outcome. They had pushed for the Palestinian security forces to be consolidated under the Prime Minister, in preparation for a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups.

Israel and the US claim Mr Arafat is tainted with terrorism and would not lead a drive against the violent groups.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,7827278%255E2703,00.html

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The weasel in control of security? Please!

Different article.