Israeli internal problems delay Washington talks

Internal differences within the Israeli government have led to the decision to postpone the Washington talks between the Palestine National Authority and Israel. The talks, originally slated for Monday, were to be attended by US Special Envoy to the Middle East Dennis Ross.

Israeli Foreign Minister David Levy had announced he would not be ready to go to Washington unless a clear authorization is given to him with regard to how far should he go in his talks with Palestinian officials. Levy met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Monday and said after the meeting that his relations with Netanyahu were "fairly good."

The Israeli inner cabinet is due to hold a meeting on Wednesday to discuss which guidelines should Levy take with him to Washington. The PNA will be represented by PLO Executive Committee Member Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen).