Bush: PA must show self-rule capability
In a speech in Washington Bush says Wednesday the PA must prove it is capable of peaceful self-rule, promises United States committed to Israel's safety
American President George W. Bush, addressing the Jewish Republican Coalition in Washington Wednesday evening, said he considered Prime Minister Ariel Sharon an ally for peace, and praised the prime minister's leadership skills.
Bush spoke to his crowd about his famous chopper flight over Israel with Sharon in 1998, during which he realized "how narrow and vulnerable Israel is." Bush emphasized that many aspire to destroy Israel, and said that "the United States is committed to defend Israel's well-being and safety."
Bush also reminisced about the first time Sharon had presented him with the disengagement plan.
"My reaction was that this is a bold move, and that I am going to go along with Sharon," said the U.S. president.
President Bush expressed "great hope for the future," and for the prospects of a resolution for the dispute, which will enable Israel and the Palestinians to live side by side peacefully.
After Israel's pullout from Gaza, Bush said, the Palestinian Authority has an opportunity to prove it is capable of peaceful self-rule.
"Our policy indicates that there should be but one security authority in the Strip, which supports peace and economic development," he concluded.
