US and EU criticise assalts on Ramallah

The international community has criticised Israeli’s attack on Arafat’s headquarters in Ramallah.

The European Union wants an end to the assault while the United States is asking Prime Minister Sharon to consider the consequences of his actions.

Israel has given the international community assurances that the incursions into Ramallah were not attempts to occupy the area.

Bertie Ahern, one of the few world leaders who talked by phone with Arafat, called for restraint by both sides.

The Taoiseach insisted that the Palestinian leader was being placed in an unacceptable position. Italy and France have also warned against the excessive use of military force in the area.

Thousands of Arab protestors ran to the streets around the world yesterday as the assaults on Arafat’s quarters took place.