In the midst of the Wye River summit, news arrived that a Palestinian had hurled a hand grenade at Israeli soldiers in Be'er Sheva's central bus station, wounding scores of soldiers and civilians. The attacker, belonging to Hamas, was seized. Prime Minister Netanyahu and Chairman Arafat condemned the attack. Israel suspended discussions for the day on matters relating to security. Text:
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today (Monday), 19.10.98, said that Israel views this morning's terrorist attack in Be'er Sheva with utmost seriousness. The Prime Minister, who was updated, beginning at 02:00 (Washington time), said that this was a severe attack which cannot be taken lightly.
Prime Minister Netanyahu wished the injured a rapid recovery and said that the attack strengthens Israel's steadfast position in the negotiations with the Palestinians and its uncompromising claims vis-à-vis the Palestinians on the security issue.
The Prime Minister said, "The Palestinian Authority must fight terrorism in word and deed alike, and it is for that reason that I am attending the Washington summit talks. Unless the Palestinians honor their commitments on the security issue, there can be no agreement."
In consultations with Ministers Mordechai, Sharon and Sharansky, and his advisers, Prime Minister Netanyahu decided that Israel will demand that the Washington talks focus on the Palestinians' fulfilling their commitments: first and foremost, in the war against terrorism.
The Prime Minister said, "In order for there to be progress on the other issues, the issues of security and terrorism must be focused on, first and foremost. We are waiting to receive the Palestinians' answers on the matter today. We do not intend to remain at the Wye Plantation for an unlimited period."
In light of events, the Israeli team informed the American and Palestinian delegations of its decision to postpone today's planned discussions on the Dahaniyya airfield.