TURKIYE- Columnist Yilmlaz Oztuna writes on the ongoing war in the Middle East war. A summary of his column is as follows:
The war waged between Israel and Palestine seems to nearing an end. Israel had intended to enter Lebanon and eradicate Hizbullah forces based in the southern part of the country. However, the US seems to have halted plans for this operation. US Secretary of State Colin Powell tried hard to block the war from spilling into Lebanon or Syria. As we believe that we are nearing an end to this war, we may now discuss its consequences. It seems that Israel will withdraw from Palestine after making long delays. However, it is understood that it will leave troops at some points for security reasons. Sharon will put this down as a point gained. Nevertheless, throughout the whole world over the last few weeks, antisemitic sentiments, hesitations and, suspicions regarding Israel have grown. No one approved of the violence they inflicted on the Palestinians. Israel lost much prestige. Meanwhile, over 20 Arab countries dithered in useless discussions and left a solution up to the US. As the US was seriously forced to make Sharon stop, it lost face too. It isn't even clear if it has stopped Israel as yet. The US, which already has many enemies and those who envy it, was subjected to criticisms in many countries. It had to delay its plans over Iraq for some time. Saddam must be delighted. The Palestinians lost many lives. However, the idea of a fully independent Palestinian state was accepted by the whole world. In fact the German chancellor has prepared a peace plan based on dividing Jerusalem into two as the capitals of both countries. Notwithstanding all these developments, this war and the peace negotiations which seem near constitute only one stage of the Palestinian problem. Many stages lie before us still.
SOURCE: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER, DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF PRESS AND INFORMATION