The U.S. and the Middle East peace process

Clinton, up to now one of the Israel-friendliest U.S. presidents in a long time, doesn't want Netanyahu to ruin the peace process because in addition to the strategic partnership with Israel, there are also American interests in the Middle East -- oil, the Iraq conflict -- which with the good graces of the Arabs are easier to deal with.

But what pressure does Washington have in hand? There are clear signs that Congress, which decides on the annual US$3 billion for Israel, doesn't want more pressure. A little less disapproval of Israel by the U.S. in the UN Security Council could send a signal. But there are already signs that through more pressure the support behind Netanyahu at home as well as in the U.S. will more likely close ranks.

-- Die Welt, Berlin