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U.S. Uneasy about Israel's Plans for West Bank
(Washington Post) Glenn Kessler - Many European officials fear Olmert's plan is an attempt by Israel to set permanent borders without negotiating with the Palestinians - at a time when the Bush administration is struggling to win European support for unified action to thwart Iran's nuclear ambitions. Israel's Arab neighbors also are alarmed at the idea, believing it will encourage radicalism among the Palestinians. Jordanian Ambassador Karim Kawar said that because the Gaza withdrawal had not been negotiated, Hamas was able to claim credit and win the elections. In recent weeks, U.S. officials have pushed the Israelis to engage more with PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. Israeli officials have made little secret of their view that Abbas is weak and cannot fulfill commitments.