Arafat takes firm grip on new cabinet
The new line-up leaves Mr Arafat in control of Palestinian security forces, despite Israeli and American demands that he step aside. Israel expressed dismay, but stopped short of saying it would not deal with Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia.
Also yesterday, the Israeli daily Haaretz said the Defence Ministry wants to extend a planned security barrier six miles east of Jerusalem, reaching far deeper into the West Bank than in published ministry plans. Ministry officials said the published route, which runs closer to Jerusalem, reflects official thinking.
