Ramon: negotiations with Syria will not be resumed
Regional-Israel, Politics, 2/9/2000

Israeli Cabinet Minister Haim Ramon said on Tuesday that Israel will not resume negotiations with Syria as long as Hizbullah attacks continue against it.

In statements to Israeli Radio on Tuesday Ramon added, "We are not ready to make negotiations amid the escalation of Hizbullah activities as happened last month."

He continued that it is presumed that during one or two months it will become clear whether the Syrians are willing to make an agreement with Israel, including arrangements with Lebanon and withdrawal from Lebanon, or not.

He made it clear that if arrangements are not reached in one or two months, "I think the government will hold a meeting in April or May and then take a unilateral decision to redeploy its forces along the borders."

Ramon threatened that Israel will violently repel any attacks on the Israeli soldiers, including civilian targets.

He said that the Israeli reply will be stronger than the bombardment that took place on Monday if missiles are fired against Israel. He considered that the enforced understanding has, as of now, become null and void (in reference to the April Understanding).

Ramon said that the Israeli forces will withdraw from south Lebanon by next July and even before this date, whatever the price will be, "But until then Israel will reply violently to these attacks."

Previous Stories:
  Hizbullah will continue Lebanese resistance to Israeli occupation   (2/8/2000)
  Report: Barak proposes a new formula on border issue with Syria   (2/8/2000)
  Understanding committee condemns Israel, holds it responsible for escalation   (2/4/2000)

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