Rice warns Israel of ‘hard decisions’ on path to peace

US SECRETARY of State Condoleezza Rice warned yesterday that Israel has some “hard decisions” to make as it moves toward peace with the Palestinians and the creation of a neighbouring democracy.

On her first trip to the Middle East since taking over at the State Department, Ms Rice also urged both sides to live up to their promises.

“This is a hopeful time, but it is a time also of great responsibility for all of us to make certain that we act on the words that we speak,” Ms Rice said before meeting with Israel’s prime minister Ariel Sharon.