Weizman criticizes decision to close Arafat's headquarters in Jerusalem

Israeli President Ezer Weizman denounced the Israeli government's decision to close the unofficial headquarters of Palestinian President Yasser Arafat in Jerusalem, the Orient House, as being and election maneuver that might increase tensions.

President Weizman is considered among the critics of the policy of Israeli Prime Minsiter Benjamin Netanyahu's government.

Israeli police forces were deployed all over East Jerusalem yesterday, anticipating demonstrations following the Israeli government's decsion.

Weizman said, "The decision aims at supporting the government in increasing its chance in the general elections."

The Israeli government said there would be "no retreat regarding the decision, and it will be enforced by power if any diplomatic meetings are convened in the building."

The Palestinians consider the building as a confirmation that Jerusalem is for them and that it will perpetual capital for them.