Blair calls on Syria to honor its responsibilities; No Palestinian peace process before halt of terrorism

The British prime minister, Tony Blair, adopted the Israeli position which rejects the resumption of the "peace process" with the Palestinians, unless what he called "terrorism" is stopped. He also called on Syria to "honor its international responsibilities" regarding support for the Palestinian organizations.

During his monthly press conference held at the headquarters of the British government, Blair defended the performance of his forces which are taking part in the occupation of southern Iraq, where 6 demonstrators were recently killed, in al-Amara quarters, during a march of protest over their living conditions. Blair said that the "demonstrators were a minority."

When he was asked if challenging the demonstrators by force was a change in the British behavior to follow the American methods, Blair said "there is no change. The most important thing is that the forces maintain order."

Blair also considered that the suicide operations and other attacks against Israeli objectives are damaging more than serving the Palestinian cause. He continued replying to a question "As you know, I have 'some times' criticized certain aspects of the Israeli policy," He added " I actually believe that it is impossible to resume the peace process, because there is no security plan that enjoys enough credibility and availing people to say that terrorism will stop, and to stop the flow of terrorists to the ( Palestinian ) authority lands, or to Israel, and to send clear messages that terrorism is the enemy of progress for the Palestinian people."

As for Syria and Iran, who are accused of supporting the Palestinian resistance, Blair said "countries which adopt a double standard position concerning support of terrorism is quite apart from the international community."

Replying to a certain question on Syria, Blair said "we have always said that it is important that Syria realize her international responsibilities and to honor them." He added that "in the world of today and in particular after September 11, 2002, terrorism stands as an obstacle before political progress, be it in northern Ireland or in the Middle East or in Kashmir or Chechenea or in any other area of conflict."