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U.S.: After Iraq, We'll Deal with Other Radical Mideast Regimes
(Ha'aretz) Aluf Benn - A communique received in Jerusalem from the American administration this week says the U.S. is operating with strong resolution to neutralize the Iraqi threat to Israel. After the war, the message continued, the U.S. will deal with other radical regimes in the region - not necessarily by military means - to moderate their activities and fight terrorism. The American message also said Israel must play its part to help ease tensions between the U.S. and the Arab world by taking action with regard to settlements in the territories. However, the heads of the U.S. administration chose not to raise the issue of the settlements in their meetings with Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom in Washington this week. The principal issue discussed in Shalom's meetings was the appointment of Abu Mazen. Washington, like Jerusalem, is not convinced of Abu Mazen's ability to take real power out of Arafat's hands. Nor does it know if Abu Mazen will be able to impose his will on the elements of power and the terror organizations on the Palestinian side. Shalom stressed Israel's demand that the process begin with steps by the Palestinians to prevent terror and implement government reforms. He made it clear that Israel was not prepared for a parallel process of mutual steps.