U.S 'positive' about aid request
U.S., Israeli officials meet in White House to discuss American aid for Gaza pullout; talks described as 'constructive,' but U.S. won't commit to package
WASHINGTON - U.S. officials said Monday's meeting with representatives of Israel's finance ministry and the prime minister's office Monday was "constructive," and reiterated President George W. Bush's general support for the Gaza disengagement program, but would not comment on details of a request for American aid for the plan.
"We gained a lot more understanding (from the meeting) about Israel's plans to develop the Negev and Galilee regions," said a spokesman for the National Security Council.
Israel is requesting more than USD 2.2 billion (NIS 9.95 billion) to help offset the cost of the disengagement program, which is expected to be between NIS 8 - 10 billion, according to Finance Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Council's spokesman also said the Bush Administration was "very positive" about the plan, and said the request for more than USD 2 billion would be "carefully considered." An Israeli participant in the meeting said the Americans had been very positive toward the disengagement plan.
The Americans also released a press statement praising Prime Minister Ariel Sharon as a "courageous" leader, and expressing hope that pullout from Gaza would make possible new opportunities for peace in the region.
Leak
U.S. officials were reportedly angry about a press leak Friday revealing details of Monday's meeting, and there are signs that the leak could cost Israel a lot of money.
Several major U.S. media outlets blasted the request following the leak.
