For most of his three months in office, President George Bush has seemed disinclined to pursue the Clinton Administration's active role in Middle East peace talks. Just as unfortunate as this disengagement has been the threat that the United States would, henceforth, support Israel almost as a matter of course. Such fears were heightened late last month when the US blocked a second Palestinian attempt to get United Nations Security Council authorisation for a UN observer force. Even after more than six months of violent clashes, Israel remains vehemently opposed to such intrusion.
Those fears have, however, been swept aside by the Bush Administration's assertive response to Israel's reoccupation of parts of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli reply to Palestinian mortar attacks was "excessive and disproportionate," said Secretary of State Colin Powell.
This is the strongest of diplomatic language and it prompted the swiftest of Israeli withdrawals. American influence has again been powerfully demonstrated, much as Israel may seek to deny it. It is to be hoped that it was also a sign that President Bush now recognises the perils of disengagement, especially at a time when the Israeli Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, seems intent on quelling resistance before talking peace.
American statements over the past 24 hours or so have indicated an awareness that Mr Sharon's policies are alienating not only the most moderate of Palestinians but could spark a broader conflict with Israel's angry neighbours. Gratifyingly, Mr Powell has offered American assistance to help Israel and Palestine to resume security cooperation talks. There could, he said, be no military solution to the conflict. This surely marks a significant American re-engagement as much as it demonstrates an attempt to be even-handed.
The step is hugely significant. At this most fraught of times, the Middle East needs the US to act as a strong middle man.
<i>Editorial:</i> Israel back on US agenda
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