Jerusalem, 28 April 2002
Cabinet Communique
(Communicated by the Cabinet Secretariat)
During the first part of its meeting today (Sunday), April 28, 2002,
the Cabinet discussed the fact-finding committee that has been
appointed by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan to inquire into events
which occurred in the Jenin refugee camp, and US President George
Bush's requests of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon regarding Minister
Rechavam Ze'evy's murderers and Fuad Shubaki - that they be held in
detention under the supervision of British and American wardens in an
isolated installation in Palestinian Authority territory, and
regarding PA Chairman Yasser Arafat's freedom of movement.
The Cabinet decided as follows:
1. The Cabinet noted Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's statement that
conditions have yet to be created whereby UN Secy.-Gen. Annan's
fact-finding committee may be received. Israel awaits additional
clarifications.
2. The Government of Israel expressed its appreciation for US
President Bush's friendship and his efforts to fight terror and
advance peace.
3. The Government of Israel has decided to accede to US President
Bush's request, as detailed in US Secretary of State Colin Powell's
letter to Prime Minister Sharon. As Secretary of State Powell noted
in his letter, Israel adheres to its legitimate demand that Minister
Ze'evy's assassins and Fuad Shubaki - who is responsible for the
terror link between the PA and Iran and for the financing of
terrorist activities - be handed over to it.
4. The government authorized Prime Minister Sharon to continue urgent
diplomatic contacts on these two issues.