Sharon: Arafat will not be Buried in Jerusalem

The seriously ill Palestinian leader was taken to Paris over the weekend. His spokesman and adviser, Nabil Abu Rudeyna, issued a statement about Arafat’s health that signified Arafat did not have leukemia or any other illness causing vital danger.

Sharon, meanwhile, is under intense pressure by right wing extremist ministers and deputies who want to prevent Arafat from returning. Israeli security services have discussed the issue and warn that if Arafat’s return is hindered, it may cause more serious problems for Israel as Sharon has already announced a guarantee of Arafat’s return.

The Palestinian leader has applied to Israeli authorities for his burial in Eastern Jerusalem at Al-Aqsa Mosque, but his application was rejected. The justification was said to be Israel’s concerns about losing influence on Jerusalem. Israel may allow Arafat to be buried in the slums of Eastern Jerusalem overlooking Al-Aqsa Mosque from a distance or in Gaza.

Al-Aqsa Mosque Foundation authorities have reacted harshly to Israel’s attitude. The Director of the Foundation, Adnan Husseyni, said nobody can give orders about Arafat’s burial ground. Husseyni emphasized in a statement to the Jerusalem Post yesterday that the decision will be made by the Palestinian people. Meanwhile, Arafat’s National Security Council held a meeting yesterday under the leadership of Prime Minister Ahmed Qurey that focused mainly on new approved in the Palestinian Authority.

Sharon awaits a new leader

Sharon has said that Israelis could restart negotiations if the Palestinian Administration chooses a new leader but said he will continue to implement his withdrawal plan regardless.