Just days after a reassuring decision by Arafat and Barak to resume the stalled Palestinian-Israeli peace talks, Israel is clearly “backing away” from its commitments.

Yesterday’s decision by the Israeli Prime Minister not to include the village of Anata (10 km. north-east of Jerusalem) as part of the expected Israeli withdrawal from 6.1% of the West Bank has ignited much Palestinian anger and, once again, raised questions regarding Israel’s genuine will for the achievement of peace in the region. Barak’s decision comes as a result of heavy right wing pressure on his, somewhat, fragile coalition government.

The honoring of signed agreements must be given priority by Barak over any other considerations in order to build confidence in the peace process altogether. His undermining of such agreements is directly posing serious obstacles in the road to peace and the spirit of reconciliation.

Barak’s misjudgment, by allowing right wing pressure to overtake the commitment to “peace,” must be realized and halted in order for the region to finally achieve stability, harmony, and cooperation.