On the return of U.S. envoys to Mideast

After the Palestinian Authority adopted self-restrained steps and acted to retain an atmosphere of confidence with the Israeli side, it has become imperative that (Israeli Prime Minister Ariel) Sharon's government reciprocates with similar steps if it really wants to resume the peace process.

Otherwise, if it pretends to work on engaging in peace talks through exchanging roles between Sharon and his Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, one speaks on how to establish a Palestinian state and the other denies it, then this means the Israeli side is back to procrastination and the release in the air of test balloons without showing a real wish and serious interest in the peace process.

This situation, which Israel wants to prevail, does not herald at all positive results soon, therefore there is a dire need for the resumption of the American envoys' efforts not only to evaluate the situation following Arafat's steps but to end Israel's stalling and push both sides to the negotiation table. This is the only way that helps seeing a glimpse of hope to end the current dilemma in the occupied Palestinian territory.

-- Al-Ahram, Cairo, Egypt