Israel vows not to block Palestinian elections
In a sign of improving ties after four years of fighting, Israeli officials also said they are willing to renew talks with the Palestinians on some issues, including security, and to co-ordinate the aftermath of Israel's planned withdrawal from Gaza and parts of the West Bank in 2005.
Israel had refused to negotiate with Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. Arafat's death on November 11 provided a "moment of opportunity that should not be lost", Powell said. He told Israel Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom that the US wants to seize the moment and to make sure Palestinian presidential elections are held on January 9, as planned.
