RAMALLAH (voa) – Palestinian officials say Israeli forces shot and killed a member of the Palestinian security services today (Thursday) in the West Bank town of Ramallah.
They say Israeli troops also arrested at least one Palestinian during a brief incursion into the town early this morning.
It was the first military operation in Ramallah since Israel ended its siege of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat’s headquarters on May 2nd).
The White House has praised Mr. Arafat’s pledge to push for reform of the Palestinian Authority — but President Bush also said he wants to see action.
Wednesday, in a speech to the Palestinian Legislative Council, Mr. Arafat admitted making mistakes and called for a review of all administrative and ministerial offices, as well as security forces. He also proposed “speedy preparations” for Palestinian elections and said he remains committed to peace with Israel.
Palestinian leaders say they want Mr. Arafat to follow up on his promise of reform, with a time-table for elections. Senior Hamas leader Ismail Abu Shanab says his group wants real reform that considers the needs and opinions of more people.
